Sam, could you tell us about your role within the Sustainable Healthcare Development Group? What are your key responsibilities? 

Each year, my main role within the SHDG has been to contribute to the Annual Report Card. We either select or are assigned a specific section, and last year, I focused on collating information about research outputs across Queen’s that intersect with sustainability. I gathered insights on how the University is promoting sustainable initiatives, not just in medicine but increasingly across disciplines like pharmacy, nursing, and dentistry. 

I've been part of the SHDG for four years now, and it’s been exciting to watch it evolve. Initially, the group mainly consisted of medical students, but today it’s much broader, creating a rich, interdisciplinary environment. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet students from different years and courses, and to collaborate closely with professors and teaching staff across Queen’s. 

How do you balance this with your academic workload? 

The group has grown significantly, which means the workload is much more manageable. Meetings are held once a month, and the busiest period tends to be around February, when we compile the Report Card. This year, as I moved into my penultimate year of study – a particularly demanding time – I shifted into more of an overseeing role, still contributing where I could but with greater flexibility. The collaborative nature of the group really helps in balancing commitments. 

Could you highlight some of the major projects or initiatives you're currently working on? 

Our most recent project has been updating the Sustainable Healthcare Report Card. We’ve also been involved with external initiatives such as the Northern Ireland Science Festival and ‘Green at Queen’s’, helping to promote sustainability on campus and beyond. 

Can you share a project or achievement that you’re particularly proud of?  

The work we've done on the Report Card over the years has been especially rewarding. Seeing it grow and improve each year – with more disciplines involved and deeper insights being gathered – has been a real highlight. It's something tangible that reflects the collective efforts of the group. 

How has your experience with SHDG influenced your academic and career aspirations? 

My time with the SHDG has been incredibly influential. It’s taught me how sustainability can be embedded into healthcare practices, such as reducing waste in prescribing and improving sustainable resource management within medical settings. 

With my background in geography, I also have a strong understanding of the social and environmental factors that affect patient health. This dual perspective has strengthened my ambition to advocate for sustainability when I start working as a doctor. Involvement in the SHDG has also given me material to reflect on for my portfolio and inspired me to think about how to implement sustainable practices in my future workplace. 

Where do you see sustainable healthcare heading in the next 5 to 10 years, and what role will students and universities play? 

There is huge potential for growth in sustainable healthcare. Over the past four or five years, I’ve seen first-hand how student-led initiatives can create real momentum. Queen’s is a fantastic example of this trajectory. 

The more students hear about it, the more they want to get involved, and the support from staff at Queen’s has been brilliant – it’s a true partnership. Going forward, collaboration will be key: students and universities working together to embed sustainability into healthcare education, research, and practice. 

What advice would you give to other students who are passionate about sustainable development but don’t know where to start? 

My biggest piece of advice is simple: just get involved. Reach out to the Sustainable Healthcare Development Group – everyone is so welcoming, and you can contribute as much or as little as you’re able to. There's loads of support and guidance available, and it's a brilliant way to meet like-minded people. 

There are also wider opportunities like the Northern Ireland Science Festival and other competitions and events that students can engage with. Don’t be afraid to ask – the SHDG is there to help point you in the right direction! 

• You can contact the Sustainable Healthcare Development Group via email on shdg@qub.ac.uk.  

Media

Media enquiries to Lia McKenzie on email: lia.mckenzie@qub.ac.uk