The Northern Sydney Local Health District recently held the inaugural Planetary Health Showcase at Royal North Shore Hospital.

The showcase featured over 20 presentations from leaders and champions in environmental sustainability across the district, the NSW Ministry of Health and the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

The showcase also featured a presentation from keynote speaker Associate Professor Angie Bone from Monash Sustainable Development Institute about changing mindsets, culture, policy and practice to shift to sustainable healthcare systems.

NSLHD Chief Executive Anthony Schembri AM said the showcase offered great insight into planetary health and the work being undertaken across the district.

“The event has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase the incredible work being led by NSLHD staff and partners to create a more environmentally sustainable health service,” he said.

“I am very proud to work for a district that is a leader in NSW Health with our planetary health efforts and ambitious net zero target.

"I look forward to seeing the outcomes of the many projects we currently have underway as we work towards net zero by 2035.”

As part of the showcase, the district also launched the new NSLHD Planetary Health Framework 2024-2027, which builds on the success of the inaugural Planetary Health Framework 2021-2023.

The Framework outlines the district’s plan to reduce its environmental footprint and support the health and wellbeing of the local population, whilst continuing to provide the highest level of care for patients. 

“Extensive consultation was undertaken over the last six months to develop this Framework, including interviews, workshops and a public survey,” Anthony said.

“Thank you to all staff, partners, patients and community members who contributed their feedback and ideas.”