Hundreds of NHSGCC drivers receive Fuel Good driving certification

The programme, which is helping NHSGGC stay on the road to its net-zero target, helps train drivers on the most efficient and economical ways to save fuel while reducing their environmental impact.

In total, 200 drivers from across the health board have now completed the scheme, helping them reduce their carbon footprints as the health board continues its transition over to electric vehicles.

NHSGGC say the programme is “hugely important” to them as their drivers can clock up to anything between 100 and 1000 miles per week.

However, with a fleet of more than 120 electric vehicles, the board says it is on its way towards its net-zero target as it looks to implement new measures and facilities to support staff work more environmentally friendly.

Matthew Monaghan, a transport supervisor at the health board’s Dava Street transport hub, who has completed the Fuel Good driving certification outlined some helpful tips for electric vehicle owners.

He said owners should learn how their vehicle works, learn about battery regeneration, understand how they can save battery life, and they should plan their routes, which can avoid making unnecessary stops.

Martin Johnson, NHSGGC’s interim head of sustainability, highlighted the importance of effective transport management as part of reaching net zero.

He said: “As the largest health board in Scotland we have to cover thousands of miles every day to ensure the service runs effectively.

“However, we know that fossil fuel vehicles are major contributors to pollution, so there is a crucial push to transition the service over to electric vehicles as quickly as possible to help us reduce our environmental impact.

“Coupled with other changes to the way we manage and develop our built environment, policies on waste management and our approach to clinical sustainability, we believe NHSGGC can have a real positive impact in the health sector’s approach to the environment."