A recent survey by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) titled ‘Voice of the Veterinary Profession’ indicates that 93% of vets consider sustainability to be significant.

On Tuesday, October 29, the BVA and Vet Sustain released a new report designed to empower the veterinary profession to contribute to the fight against climate change and assist the UK in achieving its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2025.

The report, which addresses the role of veterinary practices in combating climate change, aims to simplify the process of working towards net zero emissions. It outlines actions that individuals and teams can undertake, whether they are just beginning their sustainability journey or are already further along.

The report explores the consequences of climate change, the veterinary profession’s responsibility in addressing it and underscores the importance of vets stepping up to contribute.

A section titled ‘Four steps to net zero’ offers guidance for taking action to reduce the environmental impact of veterinary workplaces.

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The four steps include:

  1. Pledge your commitment to environmental sustainability: Making a formal commitment or simply sharing your intentions, such as vowing to lower carbon emissions in the workplace, can enhance the level of commitment.
  2. Plan to achieve zero emissions: Assess the carbon emissions in your workplace, using the Veterinary Carbon Calculator to develop an actionable strategy.
  3. Take immediate actions to cut emissions: Teams or individuals can have a significant impact by switching to green energy providers or carrying out waste audits to ensure proper disposal and recycling.
  4. Share your successes to track progress and motivate others: This can include updating teams on progress, publicly reporting improvements, or enrolling in an accreditation scheme like the Investors in the Environment (iiE) program.

The report also includes valuable resources and highlights how various veterinary practices are actively working to lessen their environmental footprint.

The BVA is setting an example by applying measures to reduce its carbon emissions and has maintained its iiE ‘Green’ level for the third consecutive year, reflecting its sustainability achievements.

Anna Judson senior vice president at the BVA, stated: “Many veterinary professionals have long been concerned about the impact the sector is having on the environment, and many are already taking action to mitigate this.

“However, there is still more work to do. Our vision is that by 2050 the profession will have adapted to support the UK’s net zero targets; is trusted on mitigating its own carbon footprint; and is a leading advocate for environmental sustainability.

“This new report is providing vet teams with the tools and the inspiration to do their bit, because small changes add-up to make a big difference.”