![](https://emergencyservicestimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ESS-Button-resized.png")
North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) has reported significant reductions in carbon emissions, waste and costs, following the introduction of a new waste strategy designed to improve environmental performance and support public health across the region.
The strategy, launched in late 2024, focused on transforming how the Trust manages healthcare waste, particularly so-called ‘offensive waste’ (everyday, non-infectious waste generated during routine care). This includes items such as used non-infectious PPE, dressings, incontinence products and empty fluid bags. When properly segregated, this waste can be treated using lower-impact methods, reducing both carbon emissions and costs.
A full review at the end of 2025 shows the approach is delivering measurable results, with the Trust now exceeding national expectations in several areas.
Since 2022, NEAS has reduced carbon emissions linked to waste by 73 per cent, surpassing the 50 per cent reduction target set by NHS England for 2026. Over the past year, the service has also cut waste collections by 31 per cent, equating to almost 500 fewer vehicle movements annually, and reduced total waste spend by 27 per cent. Overall waste tonnage has fallen by 17 per cent, reflecting improved segregation and greater diversion to lower-impact processing routes.
The Trust’s diversion rates now place it among the top 10 ambulance and acute trusts nationally for offensive waste segregation.
“These results reflect the commitment of our teams and partners to improving environmental performance while delivering better value for the public. Reducing our environmental impact directly supports the health of our communities, and we are proud to be exceeding national targets.”
Martin Gibson, Environmental Sustainability and Facilities Manager at NEAS.
The improvements have been driven by enhanced staff training, updated policies, clearer segregation guidance, more efficient collection schedules and ongoing site-level audits. Estates, operational and clinical teams, alongside the Trust’s waste contractor, have all contributed to the changes.
The work forms part of the wider NHS ambition to reach net zero carbon emissions. By cutting waste-related emissions and reducing vehicle movements, the Trust says it is helping to address environmental factors, such as air pollution, that are increasingly recognised as significant public health risks.
NEAS has said it will continue to build on the strategy as part of its broader sustainability and operational efficiency programmes.
To read similar articles, check out our Sustainability channel.
