On holiday in 2005, Neil Cooper, Crossbank Dental Care director and principal implant dental surgeon, read Let My People Go Surfing by Patagonia sustainable outdoor clothing founder Yvon Chouinard, inspiring him to take a closer look at his own practice.
Since then, key environmental initiatives undertaken at the clinic include sustainable bulk purchasing, switching to non-damaging materials, reusable items, recyclable packing, and reducing waste, packaging, contamination, transportation and emissions. A programme of continual upgrading at the premises has seen a significant reduction in their carbon footprint through installing solar panels and an electric car charging point.
Technology has been a key factor, with high-tech intra-oral scanners cutting the use of disposables while generating excellent clinical results. Its central Kendal location supports staff and patients with green travel: arriving by public transport, on foot or bike.
The practice has used its close links with local schools to encourage green practices like choosing recyclable toothbrushes, turning off the tap while brushing, and promoting preventative care to avoid more intensive, high-carbon dental treatments.
Crossbank Dental Care has also launched an initiative to collect dental waste products from a nearby boarding school for specialist recycling.
Bex Cooper, co-director and practice manager, explained putting in place an environmental policy and setting clear objectives and targets is key, whatever the business. Bex said, “We realise a healthy environment is vital not just for our business, but for the wellbeing of our staff, patients, community and, ultimately, our planet. Green Small Business certification would not have been possible without the commitment of the entire Crossbank Dental Care team.
“We’ve set ourselves a high bar for environmental stewardship in the dental industry, even producing customised dental products on site, to save on travel emissions. We invite our patients, suppliers, and community members to join us in making eco-friendly choices for a healthier, more sustainable future.”