I’ve just returned from the The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy Conference in Newport — and I’m carrying home a real sense of momentum and possibility. I was there to support the launch of the new CSP Environmental Physiotherapy Network (EPN), a development that feels both timely and important for the future of our profession.
The launch included a well-attended symposium chaired by Matthew Low and hosted by brilliant undergraduate educators Veena Raiganger, Emad Al-Yahya, Danielle Munford & Kath Donohue from my own local University of Plymouth. It was genuinely uplifting to hear how universities across the UK are beginning to embed sustainability within their curricula, each shaped by its local environment and context. Matt Low spoke powerfully about the “identity crossroads” physiotherapy is facing, offering a thoughtful, philosophical overview of how our profession is evolving.
The conference was filled with impressive research posters showcasing innovation across the profession. I was also excited by the presentation from Physio First Org & Keele University on developing a National MSK Research Database, complete with cost and carbon calculators. This is exactly the kind of evidence base we need to demonstrate the true value of high-quality MSK care to commissioners and influence future policy.
The official EPN launch took place in the twilight session, hosted seamlessly by Jen McNesfield and Tom Chapman. Despite being late in the day, the turnout was fantastic. A participant was overheard saying, “I’m so glad I stayed for that — it’s good to feel a buzz about something I really care about.” That sentiment captures the spirit of the new EPN perfectly: a supportive community of physiotherapists who recognise the urgency of climate change and understand our collective responsibility to demonstrate the value of physiotherapy not only economically but in reducing CO2 emissions.
While the work often starts with small operational changes — procurement, divestment, greener working practices — it’s clear that our role reaches much deeper.
The social determinants of health (income, education, housing, food security, green space, working conditions, the ability to live an active life) are profoundly shaped by environmental and climate pressures, and those already facing inequality feel these impacts most acutely. The economic and environmental cost of managing preventable chronic conditions is enormous.
However, Physiotherapy that adapts to the whole person — their context, their story, their lived reality — is inherently sustainable, preventative, and empowering. It strengthens communities as much as it restores individuals. If this is the direction our future professional identity is moving in, then the launch of the EPN marks a significant and hopeful milestone.
I truly hope many more CSP members will see themselves reflected in this work and join us in shaping what comes next. If you’re a member of the CSP, Join here (link to follow..)
