General practices are committed to providing high-quality, patient-centred care – and that increasingly means responding to environmental challenges that affect our communities.
From heatwaves to bushfires, climate change is already impacting health and placing pressure on healthcare systems.
With the draft sixth edition Standards, environmental sustainability has been embedded across all areas of care to recognise and support what many practices are already doing.
Small, achievable changes – like reducing energy use, cutting waste, or supporting climate-aware clinical choices – can have real environmental and financial benefits. The updated Standards encourage practices to:
- build leadership and a culture of sustainability
- support clinicians in environmentally aware care
- engage patients on climate and health
- align quality improvement with sustainability goals
We encourage all practices to start where they are. The Standards aren’t about perfection – they’re about progress. Whether you're switching off unused equipment, reducing reliance on single-use items, or having conversations with patients about climate-related health risks, you’re already contributing to a more sustainable system.
As a College, we’re here to support that journey with practical guidance, tools, and a shared commitment to continuous improvement. Because sustainability in general practice is not just possible – it’s already happening. And together, we can take it further.
Start small. Go further. Build a stronger, more resilient practice.