World Environment Day takes place every year on 5 June.
It’s a good reminder that care homes can make a real difference too. In fact, many greener choices also improve quality of life for the people who live and work there.
What is World Environment Day?
World Environment Day is led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The UN General Assembly established it in 1972, and it was first celebrated on 5 June 1973. Today it’s one of the world’s largest platforms for environmental action.
Each year has a focus. For example, in 2025 the day focused on ending plastic pollution, and in 2026 it focused on climate change.
Greener care is often better care
Sustainability in care isn’t only about the planet. For instance, a garden residents can enjoy, or less waste at mealtimes, benefits people as well. So here are some ways care homes can make a difference.
Energy
Switching to renewable energy, such as solar panels and heat pumps, reduces reliance on fossil fuels and cuts carbon emissions. Meanwhile, simple habits help too, like switching off lights and equipment that aren’t in use, while always keeping residents warm and comfortable.
Gardens and green spaces
Wildlife-friendly gardens support local biodiversity. They can also offer calm, therapeutic outdoor spaces for residents. As a result, planting, watering and simply sitting outside can become meaningful activities in their own right.
Food and waste
Recycling food waste into energy or compost helps cut landfill use and supports a circular economy. In addition, planning portions around people’s preferences, and noticing what often comes back uneaten, can reduce waste while making sure everyone still eats and drinks well.
Buying and using things wisely
Prioritising sustainable purchasing, from cleaning products to furniture, reduces your service’s environmental impact. However, safety comes first. Always follow your infection control and COSHH procedures, and never cut corners on PPE or hygiene to save resources.
Bring people with you
Changes stick when everyone is involved. So ask residents, families and staff for ideas, share what you’re doing, and celebrate small wins together.
How training helps
By adopting greener practices, care homes can play a key role in building a more sustainable future, for both people and the planet. Courses that help include:
- Meaningful Activity (half day): planning activities, including outdoor and garden activities, that reflect each person’s interests
- Food Safety (half day): food hazards, hygiene, temperature control and storage
- Infection Control (half day): hand hygiene, PPE and preventing outbreaks
- COSHH (half day): using and storing hazardous substances safely
Sources: World Environment Day (UNEP), What is World Environment Day?; UN Environment Programme, World Environment Day 2026. Correct as of 16 September 2026.
