The NIHR HealthTech Research Centre in Accelerated Surgical Care announced a new strategic partnership with Pd-m, a leading innovation and sustainability consultant, to advance sustainability across the HealthTech sector.

The collaboration came about with the NIHR HRC Co-Director’s visit to Pd-m studio and the realized potential impact of joining forces following a long working relationship under the HRC’s predecessor – the Surgical MedTech Co-operative. Integrating seamlessly with Pd-m's "Innovate to Zero" agenda through sustainable design, the partnership aims to help Healthtech projects meet NHS carbon reduction and net zero commitments.

Under the partnership, as part of the Sustainability and Net Carbon Zero HRC theme, Pd-m will provide guidance and implementation support to HealthTech innovators working with the HRC, drawing on their experience in sustainable innovation. This will enable new technologies to align with net zero milestones and be optimized for a carbon conscious world.

"Our focus at the HRC will be to set the standard for developing and delivering sustainable Medical Technologies and Innovation. This means working with partners that understand the importance of embedding sustainability at the product development stage, to meet the increasing demands of the Net Zero agenda.” Vee Mapunde, NIHR HRC in Accelerated Surgical Care Co-Director added "Pd-m's experience will be invaluable as we work to make our HealthTech projects sustainable from the outset."

Rich Shaw, Pd-m's Commercial and Sustainability Lead, said: "Having collaborated for years, we're excited to officially partner with NIHR HRC in Accelerated Surgical Care. Engaging early at Technology Readiness Levels 3-5 allows us to think boldly about circularity and optimize devices to support it. We look forward to driving inspiring, sustainable projects that advance Healthtech innovation."

The NIHR has awarded almost £42 million to establish 14 new HealthTech Research Centres across England that will pioneer life-changing research into health technologies. This includes almost £3 million to Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust (LTHT) to host the centre focused on Accelerated Surgical Care. From April 1, 2024, the new HealthTech Research Centres (HRCs) will collaborate with industry to support development of medical devices, diagnostics and digital health innovations.