HAMPSHIRE Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are to combat air pollution at its Basingstoke and Winchester sites. 

The trust will utilise an emissions monitoring platform run, this technology will provide real-time insights into pollution sources at the trust's Hampshire hospitals.

The advanced system uses sensor and camera technologies to track key pollutants to correctly monitor levels.

It will also identify possible sources of pollution spikes, providing the trust an opportunity to explore partnerships that can help reduce emissions.

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This two-year partnership with EMSOL, an air quality group, forms a part of the Hampshire Hospitals' Green Plan, aiming to fulfil the NHS' net-zero 2040 Plan.

The trust believes that the reduction of air pollutants will subsequently lead to better health within the population.

Shirlene Oh, chief strategy and population health officer, said: "Protecting our population and staff from emissions-related health threats is a key priority for us, and through implementing this new platform, we really hope to be able to understand our impact and act in a way that is beneficial for our whole region.

“We aim to embed sustainability in all aspects of our organisation whilst ensuring effective monitoring and use of resources. Tackling our pollution levels now will contribute greatly to how we can provide an efficient, effective and good value health service for the future.”

Freddie Talberg, chief executive of EMSOL, said: "The NHS continues to demonstrate remarkable leadership in the fight against air pollution.

"We are proud to support Hampshire Hospitals’ passionate team in accelerating sustainability through our advanced approach to tackling pollution."

The trust intends to integrate sustainability in every aspect of its operations, ensuring effective monitoring and resource utilisation.

Addressing air pollution now will significantly contribute to providing an efficient, effective, and valuable health service in the future.