Team turning vets’ practices green

Thrums Vets has already introduced measures including powering practices using only renewable energy and changing pet food packaging to recyclable materials,

The team now includes representatives from each of the group’s four practices across Angus and East Perthshire, who are addressing how every aspect of operations can be made more sustainable.

Comprising veterinary nurse Amy Lownie and vets Katrin Lewis, Alex Hussey and Bex Allen, they meet regularly to share ideas and implement new initiatives.

In recent months, the group has invested in a water purifier and oxygen generation system, installed composting bins made from recycled pallets and transitioned food packaging to eco-friendly and recyclable materials.

Compostable paper towels are now being used across the practices and through a partnership with PetsApp, appointment reminders, invoices and receipts are sent electronically, with anything that does have to be printed using FSC certified paper. Eco-friendly cleaning supplies and sustainable office products are also being sourced from local suppliers.

In addition, solar panels have been installed at Thrums Vets’ Kirriemuir branch. Other initiatives include avoiding single-use plastic, using water butts to collect rainwater for watering plants and washing vans and installing energy-efficient LED lighting.

Katrin said: “We’ve clearly always been committed to providing the best care for our clients, but it’s vital that this also extends to the impact we have on the planet.

“We’re continually looking at new ways of improving our green credentials. Even simple things like using spare Loxicom syringes for lab work, and washing lines instead of relying on tumble drying, as well as redesigning our recycling plan, are making a noticeable and positive difference.

“Since the start of the year, we’ve significantly reduced our carbon footprint and we’re now looking at a number of other exciting initiatives that we’ll be ready to unveil in the coming months.”