Understanding nurses' current knowledge and attitudes of climate change and contribution to sustainable adaptations in practice
The RCN Foundation has partnered with the General Nursing Council (GNC) Trust for England and Wales to fund a research study which will set out a baseline position on the nursing contribution to adaptations to healthcare provision to address the impact of climate change across the UK.
Context within nursing
It is widely accepted that climate change represents the biggest global health threat and global health opportunity of the 21st century (Costello et al, 2009; Watts et al, 2015; WHO,2019). Across England alone, the NHS is responsible for around 4-5% of the country’s carbon footprint and approximately 30%-40% of all public sector emissions (NHSE, 2025).
Due to their high numbers, trusted position with the public and work with vulnerable members of society, nurses are ideally placed to become leading experts in reducing carbon emissions and protecting people from the impact of climate changes (WHO, 2018). As far back as 2010, it was recognised that nurses can influence the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions within health, whilst also developing strategies to respond to the health impacts of climate change (Sayre et al., 2010). To do this however, nurses must understand these issues and have the motivation to act (Park et al, 2023). This understanding needs to be achieved on two levels; first, how healthcare interventions interact with the environment and second, the effects of climate change on the individual and their community (Anåker and Elf 2014; Iira eat al, 2021).
Proposal
We are seeking researchers based in England or Wales to conduct a UK-wide nurse-led study which will explore nurses' current knowledge and attitudes of climate change and contribution to sustainable adaptations in practice.
The study outputs should include a comprehensive literature review as well as an open access empirical paper outlining design, conduct and findings of a study of nurse’s knowledge of attitudes and strategies/activities used to implement sustainable nursing practices. A dissemination plan should also be included and outline the planned activities and resources.
Funding
The RCN Foundation and GNC Trust are seeking applications from early post-doctoral nurse researchers (normally up to 5 years) based in England or Wales to lead and conduct this programme of work over a 12-month period.
Funding available is up to £60,000.
To apply, please click here to download the application document.
Completed proposals should be submitted by email to grants@rcnfoundation.org.uk.
Applications open on 24 July and close at 5pm on 4 September.
Should you have any questions about this funding call, please contact Dr Sarah McGloin, Head of Grants and Impact.