The NHS has the potential to save millions of pounds by improving energy efficiency measures across its estates.

That’s according to the NHS Sustainability Campaign, which is calling on the government to support NHS Trusts demonstrating green behaviours and freeing up cash for front-line services.

For example, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust has cut down energy usage through installing boiler flue gas economisers, steam traps, automatic computer shutdowns, LED lighting and plant room insulation.

Since 2013 its carbon footprint has fallen from more than 215,600 to 203,600 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

It has seen an 8.5% reduction in energy usage when adjusted for an increase in patient contact figures.

The report says other units significantly reduced emissions by reducing the volume of private transport to and from their facilities.

The North East Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust is almost three financial years through a seven-year clean plan – it aims to achieve a 30% reduction by 2020 from a 2012 baseline.

It expects to save around £1.2 million per year in electricity, gas and diesel.

Campaign Manager Scott Buckler said: “As we approach the NHS’s 70th birthday we must ensure we have a plan for the next seventy years and beyond.

“We are calling on the government to listen and learn from the examples in this report and support Estates Teams as they continue to deliver financial savings across the NHS.