The Care Corner: Sustainability in the Care Sector
Featuring Aaron White, Assistant Director of Sustainability and Corporate Services at Oakland Care
Sustainability might once have seemed like a ‘nice-to-have’ in social care, but that’s quickly changing. In this episode of The Care Corner Podcast, we’re joined by Aaron White from Oakland Care to talk all things sustainability: from embedding green values into care culture, to making small changes that add up to big impact.
Oakland Care has been at the forefront of sustainability in the care sector, and Aaron offers valuable insight into what’s worked for them, and how other providers can get started too.
“Sustainability now makes up half my role.”
Aaron shared how sustainability has evolved from an add-on to a core part of Oakland Care’s operations.
“It’s become such a big part of my role, about 50% of what I do now. Sustainability is part of our mission, values, and even our recruitment. It’s a big part of what sets us apart.”
On Becoming Net Zero by 2050
Oakland Care has set ambitious (but realistic) sustainability goals:
“We’ve committed to being net zero by 2050, with a 50% carbon reduction by 2030. It wasn’t easy setting that target, especially post-Covid, but we decided to benchmark from 2021 and move forward from there.”
Aaron’s Advice? Just Start.
“The biggest barrier people mention is not knowing where to start. But you don’t need a big strategy paper or expensive consultants. Just begin.”
Aaron shared that their first step was something as simple as battery recycling—with a black bucket and a handwritten sign.
“People saw it and started engaging. From there, ideas flowed. It became a conversation—and that’s where the change began.”
No Budget? No Problem.
Cost is often raised as a concern, but Aaron’s message is clear: many of the most effective changes are low-cost or even free.
Wildlife gardens
Beach cleans and litter picks
Eco-friendly products
Reducing hazardous chemicals
Community gardening projects
“It’s about momentum. Most of what we’ve done has been low-cost. And these projects don’t just help the environment, they boost team morale, build community, and even create positive PR.”
Residents & Staff Driving Change
The journey started with feedback from residents and staff, and that inclusive approach continues to shape Oakland Care’s sustainability efforts.
“Our teams are really open to trying new things. And our residents love the social side of it, community planting, events, wildlife spaces. Everyone has a role to play.”
Final Thoughts: It’s About Doing the Right Thing
“We don’t do it for PR. We do it because it’s the right thing to do. Sustainability isn’t a burden, it’s an opportunity to be better, together.”
Ready to Get Started?
We know the journey to becoming more sustainable can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!
Download our free Getting Started Sustainability Checklist for health and social care providers, filled with small, practical changes you can start making today.
