Greener Allied Professionals Week 2026: ARCS highlights sustainability in reproductive science
The annual Greener Allied Health Professionals (AHP) Week, running from 20–24 April 2026, has brought renewed focus on sustainability across the healthcare workforce. Over the next few days there is a set of talks that anyone can join by following the link: https://www.england.nhs.uk/ahp/greener-ahp-hub/upcoming-events/
The initiative aims to embed environmentally sustainable practices across all allied health professions, supporting the NHS ambition to achieve Net zero emissions while maintaining high-quality patient care.
From the perspective of reproductive scientists, and ARCS Sustainability subcommittee, Greener AHP Week represents an important opportunity to address the environmental impact of assisted reproduction laboratories. IVF and fertility services are resource-intensive, relying on energy-demanding equipment such as incubators, cryostorage systems, and air filtration units, as well as single-use plastics and consumables.
Key themes from Greener AHP Week:
The 2026 programme includes sessions on carbon reduction priorities, digital sustainability, and the use of carbon calculators in clinical settings. These themes resonate strongly with embryology, where data-driven optimisation and digital workflows can significantly reduce waste and energy use.
For reproductive scientists, the week highlights three priority areas:
- Energy efficiency in IVF labs: Reviewing incubator usage, optimising air handling systems, and adopting energy-efficient technologies.
- Reduction of single-use plastics: Evaluating laboratory consumables and promoting sustainable procurement practices.
- Digital transformation: Moving toward electronic witnessing systems and paperless records to reduce material waste.
The fact that ARCS has established a new Sustainability subcommittee, recognises that sustainability is no longer a peripheral concern but a core responsibility. As healthcare contributes significantly to national emissions, integrating greener practices into fertility services is both an ethical and operational imperative.
Looking ahead:
The main aim of ARCS Sustainability subcommittee will be to educate and continue developing guidance, promoting research into sustainable IVF practices, and encouraging members to participate in national initiatives such as Greener AHP Week, and encouraging clinics to explore and introduce ways to reduce carbon footprints without compromising clinical outcomes.
As IVF clinics move closer to its Net zero targets, the role of reproductive scientist, alongside other allied health professionals, will be critical in ensuring that future fertility care is not only effective but environmentally responsible.
Sylwia Milne – ARCS Sustainability subcommittee chair