Chiltern Music Therapy has made great progress in reducing its environmental impact over the past year. We spoke with our Sustainability Lead, Jim, about the key takeaways from our latest Environmental Report, how our digital-first approach links to climate and health and what is next for keeping our work as sustainable as possible.

Q: What are the key takeaways from this year’s Carbon Footprint Report?

Jim: We’ve made major strides in reducing our environmental impact, which is really important to us at Chiltern! Our carbon footprint has decreased by 26% since 2023, and we’ve reduced travel mileage per session by 5%. We’re always striving to continue lowering staff travel – watch this space!

Q: The Lancet calls climate change the greatest threat to global health this century. In a digital-first world, how do you see Chiltern’s online presence contributing to the connection between climate and health?

Jim: By doing more online, we cut down on travel, meaning fewer carbon emissions. While digital work still has some environmental impact, it’s usually much smaller. Since climate change deeply affects public health, every step we take to reduce our footprint helps protect global health in the long run.

Q: How does digital music therapy help reduce our carbon footprint, and how do you balance environmental impact with what is best for each client?

Jim: Online sessions cut out the need for staff travel, which helps lower our carbon footprint. But our top priority is always the client. We’ll never ask someone to go digital if it’s not right for their individual needs. That said, in some cases, online music therapy can actually work better for the client and the planet.

Q: What’s next in tackling our digital carbon footprint?

Jim: We’re working on an AI policy that includes environmental and ethical considerations, because using digital tools mindfully matters. We’re also planning to review our cloud storage, email use, and digital marketing to make sure we’re staying thoughtful about our impact – both online and offline.

Q: How do we measure the environmental impact of our digital activities like our website, emails and cloud storage? What does success look like in this area?

Jim: It starts with awareness. We often think about carbon footprints in terms of travel or waste, but our digital actions have a footprint too! We’re so proud to say our website is now Carbon-Conscious Accredited thanks to the Eco-Friendly Web Alliance. Next, we’re looking at things like cloud storage and emails, using amazing tools and guidance from organisations such as Wholegrain Digital and Music Mark, who are doing great work in helping others think about these aspects. Success is about learning, measuring, and making better choices – just like we did with our physical carbon impact. One step at a time!

By combining data-driven progress with thoughtful decision-making, Chiltern Music Therapy is working towards a future that’s healthier for both people and the planet.

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You can read our Environmental Report 2024/2025 here.

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