Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 30th October 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Guide to help vet workplaces achieve net zero published
“Our vision is that by 2050 the profession will have adapted to support the UK’s net zero targets” – Anna Judson.
The report sets out four steps workplaces can take.

A new report providing guidance on how veterinary workplaces can help tackle climate change has been published by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) and Vet Sustain.

The document, Net zero: The role of veterinary workplaces in tackling climate change, aims to provide a roadmap for veterinary workplaces looking to contribute to the UK’s net zero targets.

Drawing on recent research, the report looks at topics including why veterinary workplaces should act on climate change and the roles that individuals, teams, and communities can play.

It also sets out four steps that veterinary workplaces can take towards net zero:
  • Pledge: making a formal pledge or telling others of intentions
  • Plan: calculating carbon emissions in the workplace and creating a plan to reduce them
  • Proceed: taking action, such as switching to green energy providers or performing waste audits
  • Publish: reporting progress, whether internally or publicly.

Also included in the report are case studies looking at veterinary workplaces currently taking action to become more environmentally sustainable.

The most recent BVA Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey found that 93 per cent of the veterinary surgeons who responded feel that sustainability is important to them.

Anna Judson, BVA senior vice-president, said: “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.”

The full report can be read here.

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.