Sefam UK Carbon reduction Plan

Sefam Medical Ltd Carbon reduction action plan

SEFAM Medical Ltd – Environmental Impact Strategy for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) / Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) Devices

SEFAM Medical Ltd is committed to mitigating the environmental impact of manufacturing, delivering our products and servicing. Our approach prioritises reducing carbon emissions, conserving resources, and fostering sustainability throughout our products lifecycle. We aim to meet the NHS's carbon reduction goals and achieve long-term environmental sustainability to meet the set targets (2050).

Environmental Goals and Objectives

SEFAM Medical Ltd has set out our action plan with quantifiable goals to reduce the environmental impact of our products and associated services:

Minimising Carbon Footprint: By identifying key areas where energy use and emissions can be reduced across our manufacturing, packaging, transportation, and disposal processes. 2.
Waste Reduction: Reducing our waste material volumes and encouraging a circular economy through recycling, reuse, and the responsible disposal of electronic waste.
Energy Efficiency: Utilising energy-efficient technologies and processes throughout the production and supply chain.
Resource Conservation: Sustainable use of raw materials and decreasing dependence on finite resources by sourcing eco-friendly components for our devices.

Strategies for Measurement and Reduction

We will implement a programme that integrates continuous data collection, regular audits, feedback mechanisms, and a plan for improvement.

Measurement Tools and Processes

1.Environmental Audits:

We will conduct annual environmental audits to assess our carbon footprint across the organisation. The audits will be conducted internally, using established carbon accounting tools, and will focus on areas with the highest emissions, such as energy consumption, transportation logistics, and material usage.

2. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

Carbon Emissions per Device: Track the amount of carbon emitted during production, transportation, and throughout the device's lifespan.

Energy Use in Production: Metrics on energy used in manufacturing and supply chain logistics.

Waste Generated per Device: Measure waste from the manufacturing process and product end-of-life disposal.

Recycling Rates: This will cover the percentage of materials recycled in production and through post-use product returns.

3. Data Collection Tools:

Sefam Connect/Sefam Analyse software platforms provide real-time data on energy consumption and emissions related to device usage, helping healthcare providers monitor their carbon impact.

Data collection systems will be integrated with our supply chain partners, ensuring seamless tracking of energy usage, waste production, and recycling efforts from start to finish.

Reduction Strategies

1. Sustainable Manufacturing:

Eco-friendly Materials: We are committed to using recyclable materials for device casings and consumables, while also exploring bioplastics and other sustainable alternatives. All materials will comply with European REACH and RoHS2 regulations to limit harmful chemicals.

Energy-Efficient Production: Adoption of energy-efficient equipment in our manufacturing facilities, focusing on reducing energy consumption during the assembly process.

2. Optimising Transportation:

Low-Carbon Transport: We will shift to electric or hybrid vehicles for regional distribution and aim to use consolidated shipping methods to reduce emissions from long-haul transportation.

Sustainable Packaging: Reducing the weight and volume of packaging materials will lower transportation emissions. Shift to use 100% recyclable or biodegradable packaging for all product shipments by 2025.

3. Waste Reduction and Circular Economy:

Recycling Initiatives: Establish device return programs to recycle or repurpose components. Consumable parts will be collected and processed through certified recycling partners.

Circular Economy Principles: By designing our devices for longevity and modularity, enable easier repairs and part replacements, extending the lifespan of our products and reducing waste.

4. Energy Efficiency in Use:

Our devices will incorporate energy-saving features, such as automated shutoff functions when not in use. Through Sefam Connect, healthcare facilities can monitor and adjust device usage to optimise energy consumption.

Action Plan and Timelines

We have developed a phased action plan to ensure the timely and effective implementation of our sustainability initiatives:

Phase 1: Initial Setup (Months 1-2)

Finalise environmental goals and KPIs in line with NHS carbon reduction targets.

Establish supply chain processes with sustainable partners.

Begin baseline data collection for energy use, emissions, and waste.

Phase 2: Rollout and Monitoring (Months 3-4)

Launch energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
Begin device distribution using sustainable transportation methods.

Implement recycling programs at key healthcare facilities.

Phase 3: Reporting and Feedback (Months 5-6)

Conduct the first round of environmental audits to measure progress against KPIs.
Gather feedback from healthcare providers on the usability and environmental impact of the devices.

Adjust processes and KPIs as necessary based on initial feedback and audit results.

Phase 4: Continuous Improvement (Months 7-12)

Perform ongoing audits and updates to reduce energy usage, waste, and emissions.
Provide regular reports to stakeholders, including healthcare facilities and the NHS, outlining progress and new environmental goals.

Evaluate and adjust supply chain partnerships to ensure alignment with our sustainability targets.

Feedback and Reporting

1. Transparent Communication:

We will maintain transparent communication with all stakeholders, including NHS Supply Chain, by providing regular updates on our environmental performance. These updates will include metrics on carbon emissions, energy consumption, and waste reduction, alongside progress reports on meeting sustainability targets.

2. Annual Environmental Reports:

Our annual reports will detail our environmental impact and outline the steps taken to mitigate these effects. These reports will be shared with all contract stakeholders, and they will highlight successes, challenges, and areas for further improvement.

3.Stakeholder Engagement:

We will gather feedback from healthcare providers and patients through surveys and direct consultation, allowing us to identify additional opportunities for reducing our environmental impact and improving the performance of our products.

Continuous Improvement:

We are committed to reviewing and refining our sustainability initiatives on an ongoing basis. Lessons learned from audits, feedback from healthcare providers, and developments in sustainable technologies will be integrated into future product designs and processes.

Conclusion

SEFAM Medical Ltd is committed to environmental responsibility. We measure, plan, and report to reduce the impact of our respiratory devices. This aligns with NHS sustainability goals, balancing quality with a lower carbon footprint. We innovate to meet future challenges, benefiting health and the environment.