Menu Log in Search Search You are here HomeAbout usRCOT and sustainability RCOT and sustainability The RCOT recognises the critical importance of sustainability and is committed to ensuring it’s embedded within the occupational therapy profession. We can all play a big part in helping to combat the impact of the climate emergency and reduce health inequalities. The current use of resources is not sustainable without compromising the well-being of future generations. Therefore, we believe that sustainability and a just approach to facilitating occupational wellbeing are inextricably linked. Climate change negatively affects occupational wellbeing of people of all ages, now, and in the future. The ability of people to participate in meaningful occupations, have access to the places that matter to them and be satisfied with their occupational wellbeing are being affected by the climate crisis. Existing health inequalities are being exacerbated by the extreme weather, pollution and stress that are symptoms of the climate crisis. We’re aware the Health and Care services are major contributors to the climate crisis so the RCOT is in the process of working towards helping the sector reduce their carbon output. Occupational therapists work with people across the lifespan, in urban and rural communities to support wellbeing and participation in the occupations that matter to them. Our commitment to having an awareness of these issues, and using our power as a profession to support occupational wellbeing and reduce health inequalities is both a moral imperative, and professional duty. We can use our skills, ability and a desire to make an impact to help deliver sustainable healthcare that prioritises occupational wellbeing. Prioritising occupational wellbeing for the people we work with is already a core part of our practice. Sustainability is a key part of this, as reflected in the WFOT guidelines, and in RCOT Professional standards. Occupational Therapists can make a difference and improve outcomes for all by incorporating sustainable practice to their professional roles and evidencing the environmental, social and financial impact. This is known as the Triple Bottom Line. Personal and Work Applying professional body guidance / interpreting national policies Audit of practice/service Influence at systems level: Services / Organisations / Government It’s of utmost importance that we act now to safeguard the future with a commitment to a steep or steady decline needed in emissions from the wealthiest and biggest polluting healthcare sectors. RELATED ARTICLES RCOT's sustainability action plan RCOT's sustainability action plan ARTICLE How to get involved How to get involved ARTICLE Resources, policies and guidance Resources, policies and guidance ARTICLE Share Occupational therapy jobs Website terms and conditions Privacy Policy RCOT and GDPR Compliments and complaints Get in touch Royal College of Occupational Therapists 106-114 Borough High Street London SE1 1LB T: 020 3141 4600 Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (or 'RCOT') is a registered charity in England and Wales (275119) and in Scotland (SCO39573) and a company registered in England (No. 1347374). VAT Reg. No. 242 7829 47. © Copyright 2019 Royal College of Occupational Therapists. All rights reserved. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. By continuing to use this site you consent to the use of cookies on your device as described in our privacy policy. You can change your cookies settings at any time through your browser settings. OK, I agree Share to Twitter Share to Facebook Share to Pinterest