Sustainability

At Eye Vet, we are committed to minimising our environmental impact. We recognise the interconnectedness of animal, human, plant and environmental health, understanding that environmental degradation can negatively affect the wellbeing of our staff, animals, and the wider community. We acknowledge that our operations influence the environment through the consumption of resources, use of medications, emissions (in particular anaesthetic gases), and waste generation.

We strive to continuously improve our environmental performance across our services, product recommendations, and operations, considering alignment with both environmental standards and professional regulations.

Our goal is to reduce the environmental footprint of our clinical work and promote more sustainable practices among our clients, colleagues, and suppliers. We are also focused on equipping our staff with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to a more sustainable future for our practice.

The ways that we will strive to reduce our carbon footprint include:

Responsible Resource Management

  1. Reducing our consumption of energy, water, fuel, anaesthetic gases, paper, and other resources.
  2. Encouraging and supporting sustainable travel options where feasible. Minimising mileage by attempting to operate on patients on the same day where scheduling permits while the owner waits locally.
  3. Improving waste management by minimizing waste generation, increasing recycling, and choosing materials with lower environmental impact.
  4. Use of energy-saving devices where possible, for example using LED light bulbs.

Sustainable Operations

  1. Reducing the use of single-use plastics, disposable items, and harmful chemicals.
  2. Prioritizing the health and wellbeing of our employees.
  3. Promoting biodiversity in our local environment. Bird feeders, bee hotel and pollinator plants in pots are being added.
  4. Collaborating with suppliers and contractors who share our sustainability goals.
  5. Sourcing equipment and supplies more locally where there is a suitable alternative.
  6. Where possible, facilitating surgery on the same day as the initial consultation, reducing the driving required by the owner.
  7. Continuing to provide out-clinics in other cities where possible, to reduce driving distance of clients to appointments.

Responsible Use of Medicines

  1. Advocating for health plans that promote the responsible use of all medications but in particular antimicrobials and parasiticides.
  2. Minimizing drug wastage and ensuring safe disposal practices.
  3. Enhancing animal health and welfare, reducing the need for further medications.

Engaging and Empowering Our Team, Clients, and Community

  1. Establishing a ‘Green Group’ to lead sustainability initiatives and inspire the wider team.
  2. Sharing our sustainability journey and encouraging our clients and community to participate.

We will continue to make improvements by regularly assessing our progress, setting new targets, and ensuring that the environmental impact is a key consideration in all our decision-making processes. We are very happy to chat to you about our sustainability goals so please ask us.