Our Sustainable laboratories report explores the challenges and opportunities that exist around moving towards greener labs and reducing the environmental footprint of research.
Read on to find out how some labs have adapted their practices to work more sustainably.
GSK Carbon Neutral Laboratory at the University of Nottingham
The building works almost like an organism, waking up and going to sleep depending on people’s needs
The concept of the Carbon Neutral Laboratory originated within GSK, who chose to work in partnership with the University of Nottingham due to its heritage, and continued specialism, in the field of sustainable chemistry. Over the 25-year lifetime of the building, the theory is that its carbon footprint should be zero. With leading energy ratings and accreditations, the Carbon Neutral Laboratory is the pinnacle of sustainable laboratories in terms of its environmental impact and performance.
School of Pharmacy at the University of Nottingham
We went to see what actually happens to all the waste produced by the university and it was a fantastic eye-opener. It allowed us to go back to the drawing board and sort out our waste procedure
Small changes make a big difference at the University of Nottingham
When the University of Nottingham decided to tackle the lab’s carbon footprint, an inquisitive mind and a series of subtle tweaks were key to maintaining high quality scientific opportunities while improving footprint.
Vicky Hilborne, University College London (UCL)
I’ve always wanted to look at sustainability as an opportunity rather than the handling of doom and problems. We have an opportunity to do things better rather than just mopping up issues.
Rethinking STEM education to ensure sustainability is woven throughout
Vicky Hilborne is a lecturer within the department of chemistry at University College London (UCL) and chair of the Analytical Community Council’s Sustainability Working Group. She helped design the Royal Society of Chemistry’s international survey on Sustainable Laboratories.
Helena Wong, University College London (UCL)
Hopefully, the LEAF programme will encourage more labs to engage with sustainable practices and make their contribution towards a greener environment.
Achieving a gold LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) award
Helena Wong has applied for a gold LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) award for her lab. She talks us through the process, which involves demonstrating actions taken to improve environmental efficiency under the following categories: Waste, People, Sample and Chemical Management, and Ventilation.