Hello, and welcome to another edition of Transform magazine.
The extreme weather events we’ve witnessed around the world this year are another heartbreaking reminder of the increasingly detrimental impacts of climate change on human health. However, our healthcare systems are also having a negative effect on the climate. In this issue, IEMA members highlight the crucial work they are doing to deliver healthcare that is sustainable for both people and the planet.
In the northern hemisphere, the nights are drawing in, and people’s thoughts are turning to the festive season and gift-giving. Beauty products are a popular choice, but have you ever thought about how sustainable they are? Lorraine Dallmeier reveals some insider truths.
In the UK, there is considerable concern about public buildings constructed with RAAC – reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete – and its fragility years after construction. Although lighter than traditional concrete, the material is also more porous, which has led to hundreds of schools and other buildings having to close. One of RAAC’s advantages is its lower carbon footprint. Rick Gould considers whether it’s possible to decarbonise a major component of concrete – cement.
Meanwhile, as Huw Morris reports, there is increasing concern about the flammability of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, and the danger this poses to international shipping. Can we find safer ways to get EVs to their destination?
I hope you enjoy this edition of the magazine. As always, we welcome your thoughts, contributions and feedback on what is – and isn’t – working for you. It’s incredibly helpful to hear your comments. That’s it from me. Enjoy this issue, and hopefully speak soon.
“Our healthcare systems are having a negative effect on the climate. In this issue, IEMA members highlight the crucial work they are doing to deliver healthcare that is sustainable for both people and the planet”
