Sustainability


remained as efficient as possible. Our approach to sustainability comes


down to one simple question: ‘What would we do at home?’ We realised that people are naturally more conscientious in their own homes, and once encouraged to adopt this mindset at work, everyone embraced it. Sustainability is now a regular topic in staff meetings led by newly appointed sustainability champions. With care teams excited to contribute new ideas and solutions for more sustainable practices, simple actions, like questioning whether an empty container can be recycled, are now second nature. Everyone is encouraged to drive these initiatives with both personal commitment and professional passion. As a result, water butts have been


installed in the gardens of each home, and – once approved by residents – plans are in place for designated recycling bins in each room helping to promote mindful waste disposal. Recycling has become an integral part of daily life, fostering both environmental consciousness and community spirit.


Tangible benefits


Sustainability is not just about reducing emissions; it also has tangible financial and environmental benefits: n Energy efficiency: Replacing outdated boilers, installing smart meters, and introducing thermostatic radiator valves have optimized energy use. Some of our homes have cut their electricity bills by 20 per cent.


n Digital transformation: By reducing unnecessary printing and transitioning to digital audits and care plans, we have cut paper usage by 25 per cent. This not only saves money but also underscores our commitment to responsible resource use.


n Sustainable laundry practices: Switching to energy-efficient laundry machines and sustainable detergents has minimised environmental impact while ensuring hygiene standards are upheld.


This year, we completed the installation of solar panels across all our homes. This move is projected to slash 35 tonnes of carbon emissions annually, equivalent to planting over 1,500 trees each year. The solar panels provide a substantial portion of each home’s electricity needs, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the long-term impacts of rising energy costs.


38 By harnessing the sun’s energy, we are


reducing our carbon footprint and fostering a healthier environment for our residents and the wider community. Sustainability is not just about protecting the environment – it is about creating a better world for everyone, now and for generations to come. Sustainability is no longer just a


corporate initiative – it is part of our culture. Staff members are actively engaged, brainstorming ways to reduce waste, improve recycling, and conserve resources. For example, one team proposed growing herbs in the garden to reduce store-bought versions.


Our commitment to sustainability should serve as a model for the healthcare sector. We have demonstrated that it is possible to prioritise environmental stewardship while delivering exceptional care. Our initiatives have already inspired other care providers to explore greener practices, fostering a collective effort toward a sustainable future. However, the journey does not stop here. We are already exploring additional ways to innovate by: n Expanding composting systems. n Increasing the use of renewable energy. n Continuing to work with like-minded suppliers.


We are just getting started. Our net zero pledge is a commitment to the future. Sustainability is about more than meeting minimum standards – it is about asking: ‘What can we do next?’


Top tips for other businesses Our journey offers valuable lessons for other organisations. For starters, I would recommend looking at what is manageable: n Switch utility suppliers: Explore greener energy options.


n Go digital: Minimise printing and streamline processes.


n Manage waste responsibly: Ensure waste is properly sorted and recycled.


n Engage employees: Foster a culture of sustainability.


n Choose like-minded suppliers: Partner with businesses that share your values.


We are so encouraged by the results achieved and also by our care teams’ engagement and enthusiasm. Running our homes while benefitting society and our local communities and protecting the environment is how we now work – it has become second nature to us. By thinking


beyond our day-to-day operations and focusing on the bigger picture, we are paving the way for a better, greener future in each of our care homes and the communities we are based. And for the future, our group activity coordinators are already working on how to develop more sustainable, recycling elements into the activities they engage in.


For us, sustainability means making thoughtful choices today that pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. By embracing innovative solutions, responsibly managing resources, and focusing on long-term impact, we are creating value for our customers, employees, and local communities alike.


Sustainability is about more than


reducing emissions – it is about creating a lasting legacy.


n


Ravi Sodha


Ravi Sodha is the co-owner and director of ACI Care, a family-run care provider committed to delivering high-quality, tailored care to older people across Kent, East Sussex, and Northamptonshire. Alongside his brother Anand, Ravi has steadily grown ACI Care since acquiring its first home, Fairways, in 2017. This was followed by further acquisitions in 2019, 2020, and 2021, expanding the portfolio to four idyllic care homes offering residential and dementia care. With a strong focus on ESG principles, Ravi is dedicated to building a small, independent care group that prioritises sustainability, compliance, and enhancing the long-term future of existing care homes, ensuring that ACI Care continuously evolves to provide safe, comfortable, and fulfilling environments where residents can maintain their independence and enjoy enriching lives.


www.thecarehomeenvironment.com May 2025


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