Waste – My Green Lab – Education https://mygreenlab.org Creating a culture of sustainability through science Tue, 05 Aug 2025 00:22:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://mygreenlab.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/my-green-lab-favicon-100x100.png Waste – My Green Lab – Education https://mygreenlab.org 32 32 Five uplifting sustainability news stories this Earth Day https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/five-uplifting-sustainability-news-stories-this-earth-day/ Mon, 21 Apr 2025 09:33:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=37956

Earth Day is a time to come together in celebration of our planet and to remind ourselves that progress is possible. Amid the many environmental challenges we face, there are also incredible stories of innovation, resilience, and meaningful change happening all around the world.

To mark this Earth Day, we’re sharing five positive sustainability news stories that show what’s going right. From clean energy milestones to public transportation wins, these stories offer a healthy dose of hope and inspiration for anyone working toward a greener future.

1. California shows clean energy can power the grid and cut fossil fuels by 40%

A recent study led by Stanford University’s Dr. Mark Jacobson and published in the journal Renewable Energy found that California met 100% of its electricity demand with renewables for up to 10 hours daily over 98 days in 2024. Compared to the same period in 2023, fossil fuel use fell by an estimated 40%, driven by increases in solar and wind power and a 105% jump in battery output. Even with more electric vehicles and appliances, statewide energy demand dropped by 1%, thanks to more homes and businesses adopting solar-plus-storage systems.

2. The Ocean Cleanup intercepts 120 truckloads of trash before reaching the Gulf of Honduras

The Ocean Cleanup, an organization that develops and scales technologies to rid the oceans of plastics, reported that on February 17th, 2025 their Interceptor 006 installed at the Las Vacas River in Guatemala removed 120 truckloads of trash before it could reach the Gulf of Honduras. Rain came into the city the evening before, bringing with it a massive trash flood. Two excavators and seven trucks helped clean the site before the trash could make its way to the ocean.

In 2024, efforts by The Ocean Cleanup amounted to the removal of 11.5 million kilos of trash from oceans and rivers, surpassing the amount of trash removed in all previous years of their work combined.

3. Vertical farming is revitalizing empty commercial real estate

With more office spaces sitting vacant due to remote and hybrid work trends, a new use is taking root: vertical farming. In Virginia, the Plenty Richmond Farm is set to produce over 4 million pounds of strawberries each year using vertical towers, AI-driven plant monitoring, and climate-controlled systems. Meanwhile, in Canada, part of Calgary Tower has been transformed into a 65,000-square-foot indoor farm growing crops like kale, cucumbers, and strawberries.

Vertical farming offers key advantages for the environment. Crops can be grown year-round, fresh food is produced closer to where people live, and the method uses significantly less water (up to 90% less than traditional agriculture). Because crops are grown in controlled environments, the need for pesticides is greatly reduced. These innovative farms not only cut food miles and water use, but also breathe new life into underused real estate, proving that even the heart of the city can grow something green.

4. France passes bill to ban PFAS in consumer products by 2026

France has become the second EU country behind Denmark to take independent action against Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), passing a bill to ban the manufacture, import, and sale of the toxic “forever chemicals” in cosmetics, clothing, footwear, and ski wax starting in 2026. The bill also introduces PFAS monitoring in drinking water and imposes a new €100 fee per 100 g of PFAS released into the environment. While the bill is not comprehensive, kitchenware was excluded due to industry pushback, it is a positive step forward.

PFAS are known to persist in the environment for decades, accumulate in living organisms, and have been linked to a range of health risks including cancer and hormone disruption. France’s move signals growing momentum in Europe to phase out these hazardous substances before broader EU regulations take effect. Final procedural steps need to take place before President Macron can sign the bill into law.

5. Good news for global public transportation

Alaina Wood, Sustainability Scientist and Climate Activist who reports under the Instagram handle @itsthegarbagequeen, shared some good news on global public transportation efforts in a recent video:

  • Morocco ordered 200 new electric trains to modernize and expand their high-speed and intercity rail network.
  • Canada is set to invest billions in public transit improvements.
  • By 2030, Thailand is on track to get their first high speed rail line that will run through Laos and China.

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The Power of Lab Leads in Advancing Sustainable Science https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/the-power-of-lab-leads-in-advancing-sustainable-science/ Tue, 01 Apr 2025 09:18:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=37947

Written by Jazmine Stenger-Smith, Sustainability Certifications Manager, Impact Laboratories

 

As sustainability becomes increasingly vital, My Green Lab® Certification provides a structured, effective framework for labs to implement and measure meaningful changes to reduce environmental impact. Central to the success of the certification process, which is designed to engage scientists and lab professionals, is the Lab Lead—a key champion who takes on the responsibility of guiding their lab through the certification process, spearheading sustainability initiatives, and helping build a culture of continuous improvement within their organization.

A Lab Lead coordinates sustainability efforts by overseeing the My Green Lab Certification criteria. They are responsible for engaging their team, administering the My Green Lab Certification surveys, tracking progress, facilitating discussions, and developing action plans. Their role is essential in ensuring that sustainability efforts recommended by the My Green Lab Certification program are seamlessly integrated into the daily operations of the lab.

While leading these initiatives requires dedication, it also provides many benefits, including valuable professional and personal growth opportunities. “Being a Lab Lead has allowed me to expand my knowledge and awareness of sustainability programs. It has helped me connect with people that I otherwise might not have connected with, and I’ve gotten better at stepping out of my comfort zone,” said Micah Stoltz, Operations Manager and My Green Lab Certification Lab Lead at the University of Colorado Boulder.

In organizations with multiple labs signed up to My Green Lab Certification, an Organization Admin helps coordinate efforts across multiple lab teams. For many, the experience of serving as a Lab Lead or Organization Admin not only deepens their knowledge of lab sustainability but also strengthens leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, helping drive measured change throughout the My Green Lab Certification process.

Transforming lab sustainability through My Green Lab Certification 2.0

My Green Lab Certification provides scientists and lab teams with actionable ways to implement sustainable practices without compromising ongoing research. The program assesses current lab operations, identifies areas for improvement, and helps teams reduce their environmental impact.

The recent My Green Lab Certification 2.0 update introduced groundbreaking tools and processes to make the certification process more interactive and measurable. Updates include third-party verification for greater credibility, streamlined engagement surveys for a smoother experience, and an Impact Estimator tool to track and measure progress. My Green Lab Certification 2.0 also includes a real time dashboard that shares a lab’s projected certification level and score.

Key features of My Green Lab Certification 2.0 Key features of My Green Lab Certification 2.0

Jasmine Stewart, Quality Control Sustainability – HSE Programme Manager and My Green Lab Certification Organisation Lead at AstraZeneca, highlighted the impact of this update: “The new version of the certification supports our strategy to engage and reinforce our proactive sustainability culture by making it easier for employees to complete. Additionally, being able to monitor completion in real-time through the streamlined survey was vital to getting high engagement across all of our teams – we achieved 100% survey completion across all of our supply and manufacturing QC labs!”

As My Green Lab Certification continues to evolve, the roles of Lab Lead and Organization Admin remain essential in ensuring its success. While taking on these roles requires initiative and organization, they also offer valuable career opportunities—all while making a measurable impact on lab sustainability.

The benefits of being a lab lead or organization admin

1. Sustainability Knowledge

Both Lab Leads and Organization Admins gain in-depth knowledge of sustainability in laboratory settings, learning how to implement practical solutions that benefit both their workplace and the environment. This includes best practices for reducing energy and water, minimizing waste, and optimizing resources, among others.

“There are some recommendations by My Green Lab that I wasn’t very familiar with, such as my campus’ use of renewables and the science behind composting,” said Micah. “Since our certification, I’ve become more familiar with composting in particular, as that’s one of the larger sustainability projects my department has implemented.”

2. Networking and collaboration

Becoming a Lab Lead or Organization Admin opens doors to new professional connections within and beyond the organization. Stepping into the role offers opportunities to create connections with internal and external stakeholders not typical in day-to-day operations, present sustainability data at conferences and industry events, and connect with like-minded professionals who share a passion for sustainability.

“The qualities that would allow a Lab Lead to succeed are the ability to organize and have patience, perseverance, and motivation. In my experience, you’ll invariably face setbacks on some level, but don’t be discouraged!” said Micah. “A Lab Lead should connect with people who share their goals. Even better if they’re in positions that can influence positive change!”

3. Leadership and professional development

A Lab Lead is responsible for guiding their team through changes that occur in the lab, ensuring certification completion, and building a team of colleagues committed to sustainability. Managing and tracking these changes helps develop key leadership skills such as project management and decision-making.

“We’ve found that the Lab Lead programme is a fantastic opportunity to develop leaders within our labs,” said Jasmine. “People who want to see change, can listen to their teammates’ ideas and provide direction. Those who love project work do well in the role of Lab Lead. They practice how to lead a team, manage different priorities and improve their business exposure and network.”

As an Organization Admin acts as the main point of contact for multiple labs going through the process, coordination and clear communication are essential to keeping teams aligned and certification efforts on track.

Many Lab Leads and Organization Admins also leverage their experience for career advancement as experience can be added to PD plans as well as resumes and LinkedIn. Here’s an example of how Lab Leads can showcase this experience on their resume:

  • Acted as Lab Lead for My Green Lab Certification, applying project management skills to organize the certification process and implement sustainable changes. This role helped develop leadership abilities, team collaboration, and strategic thinking while deepening expertise in lab sustainability.

4. Organizational and problem solving skills

Acting as a Lab Lead provides a valuable opportunity to develop organizational skills and problem-solve. By coordinating the certification process, Lab Leads plan and implement sustainability initiatives and ensure that changes are seamlessly integrated into daily lab operations. Managing these responsibilities demonstrates strong time-management and problem-solving skills, and the ability to oversee complex projects.

“Being a lab lead helped me learn more about the obstacles facing the realization of sustainability projects,” said Micah. “It doesn’t mean these barriers can’t be overcome, but it does mean that you sometimes have to get creative in your solutions. One thing I’ve learned from my experience is that having and connecting with people who share your goals can make a world of difference. My Green Lab is a fantastic resource for that!”

5. Making an impact

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of being a Lab Lead or Organization Admin is the ability to drive real environmental change. By leading the My Green Lab Certification process, individuals foster sustainable habits, implement best practices, and help cultivate a community of passionate individuals committed to making a lasting impact. Through My Green Lab Certification 2.0’s Impact Estimator tool, carbon and cost estimates of changing behaviors are tracked in real time.

Micah shared that he is proud of the University of Colorado Boulder’s composting program. “It was very much a multi-departmental effort to set up our program to compost soiled animal bedding on campus, which has diverted 180+ tons of material from landfills since we started. It is the biggest ‘green’ achievement my department has made so far, aside from becoming My Green Lab certified.”

Jasmine highlighted several sustainability initiatives that have made a meaningful impact at AstraZeneca, stating, “Our Switch-Off Optimisation Programme [SWOOP, an initiative aimed at reducing energy consumption in laboratories] and our Shut the Sash initiative [which focuses on promoting the closure of fume hood sashes when not in use], have been readily adopted as part of our teams’ sustainable behaviors.”

Leading the way in sustainable science

Becoming a Lab Lead or Organization Admin for the My Green Lab Certification process is a rewarding experience that develops leadership, sustainability knowledge, expands professional networks, and drives real environmental change.

Micah summed it up, saying: “The My Green Lab Certification process provides a lot of great suggestions and guidance on ways to make an impact. I love working with different groups and people with different knowledge, skillsets, and backgrounds. Being a Lab Lead has enabled me to connect with a variety of folks, and I love hearing everyone’s expertise and perspective.”

Learn more and sign up for My Green Lab Certification 2.0

Interested in starting your lab's sustainability journey? Explore My Green Lab Certification
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Advancing Laboratory Sustainability: Introducing My Green Lab® Certification 2.0 https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/advancing-laboratory-sustainability-introducing-my-green-lab-certification-2-0/ Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:39:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=38247

My Green Lab is thrilled to announce the launch of My Green Lab Certification 2.0, the next generation of the world’s most trusted green lab certification! This enhanced certification program sets a new standard for sustainability in science, featuring advanced tools and resources designed to drive measurable environmental and financial impact in laboratories worldwide. Updates to the program include third-party verification, streamlined engagement surveys, and an integrated Impact Estimator tool.

Recognized by the United Nations Race to Zero campaign as a key measure for progress toward a zero-carbon future, and recommended by the U.S. EPA, My Green Lab Certification is the world’s most trusted green lab certification. The latest updates strengthen the program’s impact while enhancing its rigor, integrity, and scalability.

Key features of My Green Lab Certification include:

  • User-Friendly Software Tool – A seamless platform that simplifies project management and helps labs track their sustainability journey with ease.
  • Streamlined Engagement Surveys – Shorter, mobile-friendly surveys tailored towards laboratory personnel to boost participation and efficiency.
  • Organizational Dashboard – Centralized reporting that provides visibility at both laboratory and institutional levels, tracking sustainability progress toward goals.
  • Third-Party Verification – Independent validation by Impact Laboratories ensures alignment with international best practices, providing added credibility to the program.
  • Impact Data – The integrated Impact Estimator tool provides insights into resource savings and financial ROI, demonstrating the tangible benefits of sustainability efforts.

AstraZeneca was the first organization to implement the enhanced program in October 2024, setting the stage for widespread adoption of My Green Lab Certification. With today’s official launch, My Green Lab Certification is now ready to deliver measurable environmental and financial outcomes across the scientific community.

Launched on January 30th during a virtual unveiling event, the enhanced program provides laboratories with a comprehensive, user-friendly framework that offers tangible benefits, including:

  • Measurable Reductions  Reduces energy, waste, water, and chemical use, leading to cost savings.
  • Streamlined Process  Simplified engagement surveys and certification process provides clear, practical steps to build a lasting culture of sustainability.
  • Institution-Wide Alignment – Recognizes laboratory-specific and organization-level achievements, enabling certifications on a larger scale.
  • Enhanced Program Integrity  Establishes credibility as a sustainability leader through robust third-party verification.

“The enhancements to our certification program reflect My Green Lab’s commitment to continuous improvement and our dedication to empowering labs to lead the charge in environmental sustainability,” said James Connelly, CEO of My Green Lab. “With My Green Lab Certification, we’re equipping labs with actionable insights within a user-friendly and powerful platform for driving meaningful change.”

Ready to make an impact?
​Learn more and start your certification process here.

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Sustainability in ACTion: How KNAUER Achieved the My Green Lab ACT Ecolabel https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/sustainability-in-action-how-knauer-achieved-the-my-green-lab-act-ecolabel/ Wed, 01 Jan 2025 23:35:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=38239

Scientists and procurement specialists are placing greater emphasis on environmentally responsible purchasing decisions, and manufacturers are stepping up to meet the demand. For KNAUER, sustainability is not a new trend–it’s a tenet of the organization that is built into its processes and products. This commitment has earned KNAUER’s HPLC systems the lowest Environmental Impact Factor (EIF) score in the My Green Lab® ACT® Ecolabel database (as of January 2025).

The ACT Ecolabel provides third-party verified information about the environmental impact of laboratory products, helping drive smarter and more sustainable purchasing. It enables manufacturers to demonstrate Accountability, Consistency, and Transparency (ACT) by evaluating materials, manufacturing process, recyclability, energy and water consumption, durability, and manufacturing location. With over 2,000 products currently listed, the ACT database helps labs and procurement specialists make informed, sustainability-aligned choices while motivating manufacturers to enhance their products’ environmental performance.

Laying the foundation: KNAUER’s sustainability goals

KNAUER’s journey toward achieving ACT certification began with a strong foundation in sustainability practices. “We are proud to be part of the UN Global Compact and to have ISO 14001:2015 certification,” said Clemens Buncher, Senior Quality & Environmental Manager. “Our Quality Assurance (QA) department, which I am a part of, also handles certification and reporting activities for sustainability and quality. The ACT Ecolabel perfectly fit into the scope of our activities and provided opportunities for improvement.”

When KNAUER decided to pursue the ACT Ecolabel, their goal was to validate and enhance their sustainability efforts while gaining deeper insights into the environmental impact of their products. Soheil Shayesteh, Head of Service and Support, emphasized KNAUER’s commitment to longevity and customer satisfaction: “I see it as the responsibility of manufacturers to develop and produce clean and long-lasting products. This means minimizing the negative effect on the environment while at the same time providing the customer with excellent products.”

“Our aim was to enhance our offerings and confirm that our efforts lead to positive outcomes,” said Buncher. “With the ACT program, we were able to achieve all of these goals for our HPLC systems. My Green Lab provided us with a standardized system to evaluate the sustainability of our products and verify the results to enhance customer trust.”

Navigating the certification process

The auditing process assessed key EIF categories, including materials, manufacturing, packaging, user impact, and end-of-life. Developed with input from industry experts and external stakeholders, these criteria were independently audited by My Green Lab’s collaborator SMS Collaborative, LLC (SMSC). Ultimately, this comprehensive assessment determined the information and EIF score shown on KNAUER’s ACT Ecolabel.

KNAUER’s HPLC systems received the lowest EIF score currently in the ACT database. Throughout their journey to achieve the ACT Ecolabel, KNAUER worked closely with My Green Lab to assess the environmental impact of their HPLC systems, appointing an internal project manager from their QA department to lead the effort.

“Resources from other departments were made available upon request and within reason to support and ensure the progress of the project. New test equipment was made available and our evaluation team in the lab was also involved,” shared Buncher. Collaboration across teams was vital to meeting the rigorous certification criteria. “The longevity and reparability of our products greatly contributed to our score,” noted Buncher. “We were also happy with the measured power consumption of the systems.”

The certification highlighted areas for improvement, as Buncher explained: “The energy consumption of KNAUER products has received more attention through the certification process. The weight of individual components was also highlighted, strengthening our efforts to reduce this in future developments.” He added, “This point is now included in the standard requirement specification for KNAUER products.”

“To see the final results was a very special moment for us,” said Dr. Christian Benkhäuser, Head of Research & Development. “It showed us that we are doing the right things, and it helps us to go this path even further and improve.”

act ecolabel my green lab

Sustainability as a catalyst for innovation

The ACT Ecolabel’s in-depth evaluation not only validated KNAUER’s sustainability efforts but also spurred further innovation. “In the past, we didn’t focus on using recycled materials,” said Dr. Benkhäuser. “During the ACT certification process, this was a topic that came up, and we started to evaluate possibilities to exchange materials to the recycled versions.”

Dr. Benkhäuser also noted several environmental topics that are now in their development process as a result of the ACT Ecolabel: “Can we use other/less material? How can we make the product more efficient (less material, less energy needed)? How can the device be serviced? That’s maybe the most important point for us: Every device can be serviced very easily, we try to keep the assembly groups small, so that just a few materials are needed to repair.”

Buncher elaborates: “The certification process established a new standard for orientating our product development and management processes, while also reminding us of the importance of sustainability in our product decisions.”

Empowering customers through transparency

The ACT Ecolabel simplifies complex environmental data, empowering laboratories to make informed and sustainable purchasing decisions that align with their environmental goals. “The ACT Ecolabel helps to bring companies and customers with the same philosophy together,” said Dr. Benkhäuser. “It is nice to make it easier for customers to find products that match their sustainability philosophy.”

One of the main goals of the ACT program is to provide laboratories with a database of third-party verified products, simplifying the process of choosing more sustainable products. “The program allows us to quantify our efforts and enables our customers to check our products for sustainability in comparison with competitors. Our sustainable programs and projects which lead to more sustainable products are made more visible,” said Buncher.

scientists in white lab coats laughing together

Leading the way: a model for sustainability

The ACT Ecolabel enables KNAUER to align its sustainability goals with broader industry benchmarks. “KNAUER wants to provide long-lasting products and service them for as long as possible,” said Shayesteh. “The certification fits into achieving this goal, as it is important to get an external view and to compare with other manufacturers,”

KNAUER’s packaging further supports sustainability, with 80% recycled materials and take-back programs in the US, EU, and UK. These efforts, paired with energy-efficient production and life cycle assessments, demonstrate KNAUER’s dedication to minimizing environmental impact.

Raj Patey, My Green Lab’s Business Development Director, highlighted KNAUER’s industry leadership: “Their exceptional EIF score sets a benchmark for the industry. We’re proud to support KNAUER in this journey toward greater accountability and transparency in lab product sustainability.”

KNAUER’s commitment to sustainability showcases how manufacturers can lead the way in responsible product development, setting a standard for others in the industry to follow. Through continuous improvement and innovation, they are helping shape a greener future for laboratory science.

“There is a lot to think about and to take into account when developing, producing, and maintaining sustainable products,” said Kate Monks, Head of Quality and Regulatory. “We’re proud of our ACT Ecolabel and the excellent score we got for the HPLC systems.”


Want to learn more or adopt the ACT program? Browse our website or reach out to us at businessdevelopment@impactlaboratories.com.

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Biogen Achieves 100% My Green Lab Certification: A Sustainability Milestone https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/biogen-achieves-100-my-green-lab-certification-a-sustainability-milestone/ Mon, 25 Nov 2024 22:51:38 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=37272

In 2023, Biogen became the first large biotech company to achieve 100% My Green Lab Certification across all its laboratories, setting a new standard for sustainability in the biotech industry. By improving efficiency and reducing waste, water, and energy consumption, Biogen has been decreasing its environmental impact and advancing its commitment to sustainability.

Biogen’s sustainability efforts reflect the company’s aspiration to foster a healthier, more sustainable future for all. “Employees recognize the link between human and environmental health,” emphasized Biogen’s President and CEO Chris Viehbacher. Biogen’s collective commitment to sustainability and focused effort enabled them to achieve certification for every lab through the My Green Lab program two years before its target.

“Biogen has embraced sustainability as a core element of our operational priorities,” said Katie Woodward, Interim Head of Sustainability. “Given rapidly evolving stakeholder expectations, we regularly monitor and act on a range of sustainability concerns. We believe this can help improve efficiency and address the interests of customers, employees, regulators and other stakeholders. Our commitment to the My Green Lab program is part of our broader ambition.”

The certification effort began with a focused pilot program involving a small group of labs across the Research and Development (R&D) and Product and Technology Development (PTD) functions. The early success of this initiative laid the foundation for broader adoption. “Biogen laboratory teams showed enthusiasm in the My Green Lab Certification pilot. Based on my colleagues’ interest and desire to make our labs more sustainable, we brought the program to leadership to ensure we had global commitment,” said Tooba Gilani, Senior Associate II, EHS (Site Environmental Compliance Lead), who spearheaded Biogen’s My Green Lab work. “Along with driving energy efficiency in our labs, this work has led to other environmental projects and motivating many of my colleagues,” Gilani said.

To achieve full implementation, Biogen established a Core Committee to guide the process. This committee, along with Lab Ambassadors who volunteered to lead the implementation of the program in their individual labs, played a crucial role at key steps in the certification process.

A scientist wearing safety goggles and a lab coat labeled "Biogen" in a lab

Implementing Sustainable Practices

The My Green Lab Certification process begins with a Baseline Assessment Survey, where lab members complete a self-assessment on 14 topics that include recycling and waste reduction, resource management, green chemistry and green biologics and infrastructure energy, allowing My Green Lab to identify current best practices and to recommend additional sustainability actions. Labs then implement these recommendations over several months before retaking the survey to measure their progress. Based on the progress, labs receive an overall score and a certification level, along with new recommendations for ongoing improvement.

For Biogen, the valuable insights gained from this program have facilitated the development of sustainable solutions targeting energy and water usage, waste management, over-purchasing, and beyond.

Enhancing Education

To support educational efforts around Biogen’s sustainability practices, the Core Committee created detailed site-specific documents. “To ensure education across laboratories on Biogen’s practices, we created an internal document for each site with common Sustainability FAQs that were found in the certificate assessment, and guided laboratories to review this document prior to certification,” said Gilani.

Lab Ambassador Irene Jenkins, Engineer II, underscored the crucial role of education throughout the process. “I think education was most important to our sustainability efforts,” she said. “Our baseline results were heavily affected by the number of ‘I don’t know’ responses, and just by becoming informed and agreeing on sustainability goals for the lab, we significantly improved our score.”

Energy Savings

“A few actions come to mind which improved our certification score compared to our baseline. One action was to audit our lab instruments to identify and label equipment that could be set to stand-by mode or unplugged to reduce the energy demand of idle equipment,” noted Jenkins. “Additionally, our freezers were placed on a scheduled defrost rotation to optimize efficiency.”

Waste Reduction

Understanding proper waste reduction strategies has helped Biogen find ways to reduce, recycle, and reuse. Laboratory changes include switching from single-use plastics to reusable glassware, recycling Styrofoam and soft plastics, and reusing biotainers for Stack Smashing Protector (SSP) buffers.

“Another action was to research vendor recycling programs and improve signage on appropriate recycling practices,” said Jenkins.

Improved Purchasing

Biogen’s team learned practical lessons throughout the certification process that will help drive future decisions, including more widespread understanding of how to read ACT Eco Labels and how to use Energy Star to inform purchasing decisions. “This will help us buy materials with a smaller environmental footprint and equipment that uses energy more efficiently,” said Jenkins. “Additionally, one focus group was tasked with researching then presenting resources available to guide informed purchasing decisions.”

As a result, one Biogen lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, began using Biotix pipette tips, which contain 30% less plastic than other products, and adopted Polycarbin as a solution for the closed-loop recycling of single-use scientific plastics such as pipette tip boxes. This resulted in the recycling of approximately 411 kilograms of plastic in just seven months. The team is now helping to share this information with colleagues in other labs to encourage its widespread adoption.

Two scientists wearing full-body suits, hair nets, gloves, and goggles work together at a laptop on a mobile workstation in a sterile lab

Navigating Challenges

The journey toward certification was not without its challenges. One of Biogen’s key obstacles was the differing and complicated nature of its labs. Each lab has unique functions and processes, and some have strict operational standards that are difficult to modify for sustainability purposes. “In those labs, we focused on what we could change toward sustainability rather than what we couldn’t,” noted Gilani. Through education, communication, and the implementation of best practices learned through the My Green Lab Certification program, sustainability became a priority every lab could work towards—while maintaining strict standards for safety and quality, among other considerations.

For Jenkins, awareness was the key to changing lab practices. “Our largest challenge was a lack of awareness, which could lead to default behavior,” she explained. “For example, regular freezer defrosts and coil cleaning was not a consistent proactive maintenance activity for us; instead, it was a reactive strategy when a freezer would fail. By becoming aware of a more effective cadence for freezer defrosts and maintenance to ensure optimal freezer efficiency, we are now proactively preventing failure events.”

Through monthly check-in meetings and feedback loops between lab leaders, Jenkins and her team ensured that all members remained informed and active. “By sharing the responsibility to make change, everyone stayed engaged in the initiative,” said Jenkins.

Cultural Shift Towards Sustainability

Biogen’s certification journey resulted in significant advancements in sustainable lab operations, directly contributing to the organization’s corporate climate goals and demonstrating that change is achievable. “The parameter I am most proud of is 100% engagement from my lab in this initiative,” said Jenkins. “Every member of the lab ended this project more informed and having helped build our target sustainability practices.”

Marielle Thorne, Manager, R&D Lab Operations, highlights how the certification process unveiled new sustainability opportunities. “Early expectations were that we might look at recycling waste or maybe purchasing greener products. As we progressed, we discovered many areas we had not thought about as being part of our sustainability goals,” Thorne said. “Now 100% of the lab’s freezers are at -70,” she continued.

The My Green Lab Certification process not only led to substantial improvements but also catalyzed a cultural shift. Jenkins recalls the achievement lab members felt upon receiving their certification plaques: “You could feel a sense of pride in the effort and changes that took place to reduce our footprint on the planet,” she said.

The program not only resulted in immediate environmental benefits but cultivated a lasting cultural commitment to sustainability. As Thorne observed, “We have learned that there is a strong desire within the scientific community to drive sustainable change. They are engaged, willing to make the change, and explore new solutions for sustainability.”

Furthermore, Gilani highlighted the program’s significance: “My Green Lab Certification has been at Biogen for four years now and 100% of labs have completed the certification program. This dedication has showcased that Biogen is committed to sustainability at the lab level, and employees have clear spaces to talk about goals and projects related to sustainability through the culture that has been built over the years,” she concluded.

The success of Biogen’s My Green Lab Certification initiative has established a significant benchmark within the biotech industry. Not only are 100% of Biogen’s labs certified, as of publish date, 56.7% of the company’s labs achieved Green status, the highest certification level possible.

“Biogen’s pivotal milestone demonstrates how a coordinated, collaborative effort can drive transformative change in laboratory sustainability,” said Scott Grant, Vice President of Certifications, My Green Lab. “This achievement reflects Biogen’s leadership and commitment to integrating sustainable practices across their operations and serves as a powerful example for the entire industry.”

Scientist wearing white lab coat with a Biogen name tag, safety glasses, and gloves holding a green clipboard

Inspired to start your lab’s sustainability journey?

Learn more
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The Ideal Sustainability Advocate https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/the-ideal-sustainability-advocate/ Tue, 29 Oct 2024 21:13:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=38192

Written by Emma Wightman, MSc – Content Specialist & Technical Writer, Triumvirate Environmental

In today’s fast-paced world, it may feel like you don’t have a voice when it comes to sustainability initiatives, whether you’re a manager uncertain about executive buy-in, or a lab assistant unsure how to raise your concerns and ideas to those higher up.

We’re here to tell you that regardless of who you are—your title, rank, or tenure—you are the ideal candidate to be passionate about and make meaningful changes for operational sustainability. Not only that, but sustainability advocacy is a key leadership opportunity. Those who take on this role will be the ones leading the charge, proving daily their commitment to bettering operations and the environment alike.

Everyone across an organization has the power to be a sustainability leader and make a tangible operational and environmental difference—it takes just one or a few people to step forward in order to make widespread and important environmental improvements. We will break this down by rank and tenure below.

Sustainability Champions in Various Roles

Novice/Lab Staff: In your first few years or months at a new position, you may not feel like you can speak up about making widespread changes. Often, people just beginning their careers don’t feel they can mess with “the way things have always been done.” This is a myth, however—newer staff come to positions with heaps of varied real-world experiences, making them the perfect candidates to help innovate.

Lab staff are the boots-on-the-ground workforce that gets things done—and see what works and what doesn’t on a daily basis. They are the teams that will actually have to implement any proposed changes, and thus should be respected for their willingness to change the game. These team members can, among others:

Additionally, for those who want to become lab sustainability experts, the My Green Lab Accredited Professional program offers six modules on Waste, Procurement, Water, Energy, Green Chemistry, and Engagement.

As a newer team member, don’t hesitate to bring data-backed ideas to meetings and open up new conversations.

Mid-tenure/Frontline Managers: Often, mid-tenure employees can become immersed in the routine demands of daily work life. Be it processes they’ve been doing repeatedly for years or challenges to funding and protocols, it can feel like meaningful change hasn’t happened—so it never will. Folks in this position tend to be powerhouses of collaboration, however; they have seen what has worked and what hasn’t worked for years, but still have the spark and passion for the job they did when they were new.
Frontline and operations managers condense broad executive orders into actionable steps for their teams. Without this vital switchboard, some executive orders would fall flat—or lab staff initiatives might never reach executive ears. These team members are ideal for helping brainstorm new sustainability initiatives, as well as thinking about how logistically they would fit into operations. Mid-tenure employees can also, among others:

  • Allocate resources and budgets
  • Manage sustainability program implementation
  • Establish key performance indicators (KPIs)
  • Analyze metrics and collected data
  • Evaluate the practicality of best practices so as not to sacrifice research integrity

These team members can use green procurement guidelines, sustainability partners, and tracking/reporting/resource-sharing platforms to accomplish their goals.

As an organization, empower these employees to digest their teams’ struggles and turn them into an actionable plan. As a manager, don’t hesitate to speak up when you have an idea that will make everyone’s lives easier, based on your observations.

Late-term/Executive Team: People who have been around for years have seen it all—successes, failures, and everything in between. People at this stage can be a great sounding board for which sustainability initiatives can be filtered through, making decisions and creating actionable plans to distill to the whole organization.

If this describes you, don’t be afraid to wield your decision-making power over the organization—and leverage your experience with communication and plan implementation to ensure it works for all involved. On top of this, these team members can, among others:

  • Help establish and approve KPIs
  • Allocate large-scale budgets
  • Communicate expected or ongoing changes, company-wide
  • Brainstorm and research sustainability solutions
  • Make decisions using collected data

Executives and late-term employees can use carbon calculators, green procurement guidelines, and internally collected sustainability program data to reach their goals.

As an organization, be flexible and prepared to pivot as these ideas change and grow.

Collaboration Is Key

The key to all of this is collaboration—it will take people of all tenures and roles to succeed in implementing sustainability initiatives. Sustainability isn’t the responsibility of just one person or department—it’s a collective effort that requires the engagement of every role across an organization. From the enthusiasm of new lab staff to the strategic oversight of executives, everyone has the power to drive meaningful environmental change. By fostering a culture of open communication, innovation, and collaboration, organizations can create a thriving environment where sustainable practices are not just encouraged but actively implemented and celebrated.

No matter your position, tenure, or experience, your voice and actions are valuable. Together, we can build a more sustainable future for laboratories, one initiative at a time. When we unite our expertise, insights, and passion, we not only make our labs greener but also contribute to a larger movement toward global sustainability. So, take the first step—no matter how small—and become a champion for sustainability in your lab today.

To get started with lab sustainability, visit Triumvirate Environmental’s Lab Sustainability page to see how this dedicated partner can help you reach your full potential—no matter who you are.
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Cutting Laboratory Plastic Waste: The Power of Reusable Consumables https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/cutting-laboratory-plastic-waste-the-power-of-reusable-consumables/ Thu, 05 Sep 2024 18:35:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=37583

Written by Caitlin Harclerode – Sr. Director of Marketing, Grenova

The Environmental Impact of Laboratory Plastic Waste

Over the past decade, single-use plastics have emerged as a critical component in the life sciences industry, offering a unique combination of convenience, sterility, and cost-effectiveness. While single-use plastics have played a pivotal role in advancing the industry, it is crucial to acknowledge their environmental repercussions. The widespread adoption of single-use plastics has led to a significant increase in plastic waste generating over  12 billion pounds of plastic waste (1) per year. As the demand for consumables in labs continues to rise, finding sustainable solutions has become imperative​​.

Plastic consumables, particularly pipette tips and plates, are a significant source of waste in laboratories. Broader studies estimate that the production of a single 96-rack of polypropylene pipette tips releases approximately 0.304 kilograms of CO2 equivalent (CO2e) and requires about 6.6 liters of water(2,3,4)​​. When scaled to the level of a typical laboratory’s usage, the environmental impact of manufacturing becomes substantial. With laboratories using these consumables regularly, the cumulative effect on carbon emissions and water usage is staggering. Compounding this effect, the disposal of this plastic contributes significantly to environmental pollution, hazardous waste, carbon emissions, and resource depletion​​.

Sustainable Solutions

When it comes to plastic consumables, we must rethink the traditional “make, use, dispose” model and create opportunities to reuse what we have. The life sciences industry needs to move toward using plastics efficiently and transitioning to a closed-loop system where plastic retains its value by keeping it in the supply chain instead of polluting the environment. In effect, this creates a circular economy that eliminates waste and pollution, keeps materials in use, and restores nature. Laboratories can play a crucial role in this shift by adopting practices that contribute to a circular economy by forming partnerships with suppliers who prioritize sustainability.

One potential method to mitigate environmental impact is by washing and reusing pipette tips and plates. Validation studies from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)(5) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)(6) demonstrate that washed tips are of the same quality as new tips, with no evidence of contamination​​. Integrated solutions, like Grenova’s tip and plate washing systems, allow laboratories to significantly reduce their reliance on single-use plastics. Instruments can be programmed to help scientists use tips in a way that becomes a seamless part of the workflow. Such systems allow laboratories to wash and reuse pipette tips and plates multiple times without compromising research quality.

For plastic that must be used, new options are emerging for recycling and reuse of the material. While part of the responsibility lies with lab managers to conscientiously dispose of their plastic waste, manufacturers must also take responsibility for their products’ end-of-life and find ways to “close the loop.” Implementing dedicated recycling programs within lab spaces can ensure that single-use plastics are collected and reprocessed into new lab products, reducing the demand for virgin materials. Additionally, manufacturers can develop biodegradable alternatives for commonly used lab plastics, further contributing to a circular economy. Collaborations between manufacturers, end users in labs, and closed-loop recycling solutions can accelerate this transformation to a lower-carbon life sciences industry.

Quantifying the Impact

By reusing plastics instead of disposing of them, positive environmental impacts are achieved on multiple fronts. It reduces the need for producing new plastic items, along with lowering the environmental costs associated with packaging, transportation, and disposal. This leads to a decrease in CO2e emissions, water consumption, and hazardous plastic waste. By quantifying and forecasting these reductions, labs can better understand the benefits of implementing a pipette tip-washing solution. For instance, as shown in the image below, using calculations from climate-focused firm Rho Impact, it can be estimated that a lab using 8,500 tip racks annually and reusing each tip ten times could achieve a reduction of 5.3 tons of CO2e(2,7).

Operational costs can also be realized by not purchasing consumables. A study conducted by the Tobacco Exposure Biomarkers Laboratory of CDC that implemented a Grenova tip washer concluded that using cleaned pipette tips can save over $24,000 annually(6)​​. In the case of a customer using 8,500 racks annually, priced at $8.00 per rack, this could translate to a savings of $61,200 per year. The potential cost savings, combined with the reduced supply chain dependencies, makes a compelling case for laboratories to transition to reusable consumables.

annual impact of washing tip racks

We Can Do Better

The life sciences industry must take proactive steps towards sustainability. With the projected growth of the industry, the plastic waste generated will only continue to increase unless significant changes are made​​. It is not just the responsibility of individual labs but a collective effort that requires the collaboration of manufacturers, end-users, and policymakers. By embracing the adoption of reusable pipette tips and plates through advanced washing technologies, like Grenova, laboratories can make substantial contributions to environmental sustainability while also realizing economic benefits. This initiative not only addresses the immediate need to reduce plastic waste but also sets a precedent for sustainable practices in scientific research and healthcare.

Join us here to explore how adopting practices like tip washing can reduce plastic waste and calculate your potential sustainability impact. Together, we can all do better in reducing plastic waste and creating a more sustainable future for the life sciences industry. Every small step counts in making a big difference.

References

  1. https://s23.q4cdn.com/595160625/files/LifeLines_March2021.pdf.
  2. Nicholson, Scott R., Nicholas A. Rorrer, Alberta C. Carpenter, and Gregg T. Beckham. “Manufacturing Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Associated with Plastics Consumption.” Joule 5, no. 3 (March 17, 2021): 673–86. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joule.2020.12.027.
  3. UK 2020 Greenhouse gas reporting: conversion factors 2020. From: Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy water supply tab.
  4. Korol 2019 Korol, Jerzy, Aleksander Hejna, Dorota Burchart-Korol, Błażej Chmielnicki, and Klaudiusz Wypiór. “Water Footprint Assessment of Selected Polymers, Polymer Blends, Composites, and Biocomposites for Industrial Application.” Polymers 11, no. 11 (November 2019): 1791. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym11111791.
  5. Travers, J., Whitt, N., Chen L., Todd, C., Frebert S., Michael S., Klumpp-Thomas, C. (2019, February 2-6). Reduction of Plastic Waste Through the Use of Automated Pipette Tip Washing [Poster presentation]. SLAS, Washington, D.C., USA.
  6. Choi, D., McGahee, E. III, Brosius, C., Brown, J., Guillot, T., Lee, J., Xia, B., Wang, L. (2019) Integrating tip washer into automation system waste management procedures [Poster presentation].
  7. Mannheim, Viktoria, and Zoltan Simenfalvi. “Total Life Cycle of Polypropylene Products: Reducing Environmental Impacts in the Manufacturing Phase.” Polymers 12, no. 9 (August 24, 2020): 1901. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym12091901.
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Bridging Education and Action for Greener Labs: The Accredited Professional Program https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/bridging-education-and-action-for-greener-labs-the-accredited-professional-program/ Mon, 29 Jul 2024 15:45:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=37503

In the ever-evolving landscape of scientific research, balancing groundbreaking discoveries with sustainable practices is critical, as labs are resource-intensive spaces with significant environmental impacts. Envision a world where every laboratory operates at peak efficiency, not just in its research but in its commitment to sustainability. Achieving this vision begins with one crucial element: education.

In the realm of lab sustainability, knowledge isn’t just power – it’s the engine that drives meaningful change. Educating professionals within the scientific sector about sustainability is essential because it empowers them to make informed decisions that reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower carbon footprints.

As the first program of its kind, the My Green Lab Accredited Professional (AP) Program offers the knowledge and know-how to bring sustainability best practices to life in the lab.

Comprehensive Lab Sustainability Education

“Knowing that inefficient laboratories can consume ten times more energy, produce significantly more single-use waste, and use four times more water than commercial buildings, it was obvious where to focus… but how?” asked Accredited Professional (AP) Tolga Berk, Senior Consultant at Waldner. “The AP program provided the perfect answer, offering a well-structured framework, clear guidance on what can be done, and content of available programs to support scientists on their journey to a sustainable future.”

The My Green Lab AP Program is a comprehensive course designed to deepen your understanding of various sustainable lab topics. The program covers six critical areas of lab sustainability, each explored in-depth through dedicated modules including WasteWaterEnergyProcurementEngagement, and Green Chemistry. Through an interactive virtual format, participants gain access to expert content developed by leading professionals in the field, emphasizing practical tools and takeaways.

Designed for scientists and people who support or work with laboratories, there are no prerequisites for becoming a My Green Lab AP. With nearly 150 My Green Lab APs (as of July 2024), the program fosters a global network of sustainability leaders dedicated to transforming laboratory operations and promoting a greener future.

From Waste Management to Financial Savings: Insights from My Green Lab Accredited Professionals

Implementing the knowledge learned from the My Green Lab AP program has led to cost savings, efficiency improvements, and more. Since implementing sustainable practices, “The biggest area of improvement has been managing our various waste streams, be it either reducing, reusing, or recycling,” shares Chris Underwood, Laboratory Technical Manager at Affinity Water. “Nitrile gloves, plastic bottles, pipette tips and boxes, food waste, and glass have all been looked at and substantial improvements made,” he continues.

The program has also helped drive substantial financial savings through enhanced energy efficiency. Tolga Berk highlighted the benefits of optimizing HVAC systems and reducing energy consumption, noting, “By working with labs aiming for My Green Lab certification or energy efficiency, we achieved up to 40% HVAC optimization and a 30% reduction in energy usage from infrastructure and plug loads. By converting lighting systems from fluorescent to LED, we saved approximately 75,000 EUR per building annually.”

Building a culture of sustainability within the lab is crucial for maintaining long term progress, as emphasized throughout the program. Triumvirate Environmental’s EHS Consultant Kiersten Dinda highlighted the importance of fostering enthusiasm and creating a dedicated team: “Once you initiate engagement and involve individuals onsite, it enhances the work environment as others become motivated. By demonstrating the potential changes and long-term benefits to those individuals, their enthusiasm grows. While introducing changes can initially be challenging, establishing a core group of sustainability advocates onsite can possibly expedite the process of implementing change and keeping that motivation alive.”

The Professional and Community Impact of the My Green Lab AP Program

The My Green Lab AP Program has had a profound impact on the professional development and community outreach efforts of many APs. Andy Cooley, Global Sustainability Lead at PerkinElmer, notes “Obtaining this accreditation is important for establishing myself as a credible sustainability professional. This external recognition enhances my professional profile and enables me to contribute effectively to the sustainable laboratory community.”

Chris Underwood elaborates, “More and more people want to work for a company that has sustainability credentials. I recently interviewed someone for a role that was attracted to the position because of the green credentials gained through the accredited professional and certification programs.”

Additionally, the program has proven valuable for educational and outreach activities. Mary Sekiya, Chief Technical Officer and Laboratory Manager at University College Dublin, shared, “The accreditation has provided a wealth of information that I can draw on for presentations and outreach events. I was able to use information on energy consumption of low-temperature freezers in an interactive sustainability quiz I presented at a recent graduate student symposium.”

Through education, practical guidance, and a focus on impactful action, the program continues to drive meaningful change in the lab environment.

A Program for All Professionals

Completing the My Green Lab AP Program not only equips you with a robust understanding of lab sustainability but also offers industry recognition that can be invaluable for career advancement. It demonstrates expertise and commitment to sustainable practices, enhancing professional credibility and positioning APs as leaders in the field of lab sustainability.

The AP program’s comprehensive approach to sustainability benefits a wide range of professionals, as emphasized by Tolga Berk: “After completing the program, I can easily say that the accreditation is not just designed for laboratories and their scientists. It is a comprehensive program that offers valuable insights for a wide range of professionals, including procurement managers, health and safety experts, facility managers, project managers, and even service providers like me.”

Start your sustainability journey today

Sign up for the My Green Lab AP Program

Accredited Professionals
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Navigating Lab Sustainability: How Environmental Partners Drive Change https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/navigating-lab-sustainability-how-environmental-partners-drive-change/ Wed, 19 Jun 2024 19:50:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=38124

Co-written by My Green Lab and Triumvirate Environmental 

At My Green Lab, we understand the unique challenges laboratories face in their journey towards sustainability. One of our goals is to bridge the gap between ambitious sustainability goals and practical, achievable steps that labs can take. We offer a variety of programs designed to make labs greener, such as the My Green Lab Certification programACT Eco-Label for sustainable product evaluation, and the International Laboratory Freezer Challenge. These initiatives not only help labs reduce their environmental footprint, but also enhance efficiency and promote a culture of sustainability within the scientific community.

However, sustainability in laboratories isn’t just about reducing waste or energy consumption; it’s about creating a holistic approach that integrates environmental responsibility into every aspect of laboratory operations. This includes everything from procurement of sustainable products, efficient energy use, waste minimization, and promoting a culture of sustainability among staff. By adopting comprehensive sustainability practices, labs can significantly reduce their environmental impact while often realizing cost savings and operational efficiencies.

Environmental partners can be key to achieving these goals. They bring specialized knowledge and practical solutions that can help labs implement and maintain effective sustainability practices. A competent and capable partner can provide critical support in navigating EHS regulations, optimizing resources, and ensuring efficiency in ongoing progress. In addition, partnerships foster innovation and creativity, enabling labs to tackle sustainability challenges with confidence—all while achieving meaningful results.

Why You May Need an Environmental Partner

Navigating the complex landscape of environmental regulations and sustainability best practices can be challenging. An environmental partner can provide the expert guidance to help ensure your lab stays compliant with the latest sustainability standards—as well as optimize resource use, meaning cost savings and reduced environmental impact. By offering specialized services such as waste management, environmental leadership, and consulting for such topics as energy efficiency solutions or best practice implementation, environmental partners can address the sustainability challenges unique to your laboratory and help you move forward in a knowledgeable and effective way.

Moreover, a trusted environmental partner will support sustainability initiative implementation, ensuring a smooth transition into new procedures and practical outcomes of these changes. Continuous improvement is another benefit of partnering for sustainability services; an environmental partner can help track progress and measure impact, spurring sustainability practice evolution and success over time.

Almost every facility requires some form of support in implementing sustainability initiatives—rarely can an organization operate completely independently in this venture. Be it with green waste disposal, environmental consulting, or sustainable committee leadership, there are almost always some major tasks that warrant sustainability services from a competent and experienced partner. Some signs that your organization may need help from an environmental partner are:

  • Project teams are overloaded and busy
  • The organization lacks a clear sustainability leader
  • A sustainability leader is identified, but they can’t maintain internal sustainability support
  • Sustainability metrics reporting is required
  • There is an internal desire to analyze sustainability metrics
  • Lofty corporate or operational sustainability goals require attention
  • There is a desire to track and reduce energy use, waste consumption, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—as well as associated costs
  • Internal processes are not aligning with the broader organizational environmental position
  • Utility costs need to be lowered
  • Green sourcing and supply chain is desired
  • There is interest in obtaining a sustainability certification such as My Green Lab Certification, whether by individual teams or as an organization overall

If one or more of these apply to you, it might be time to consider working with an experienced and dedicated environmental partner who can guide and support your sustainability journey.

EHS Partnering for Lab Sustainability

At My Green Lab, we provide the framework and tools necessary to help labs achieve their sustainability goals. Our My Green Lab Certification program sets the standard for best practices in lab sustainability, covering areas such as energy conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable purchasing. Labs that achieve this certification demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and leadership in the scientific community.

While our programs provide the framework and recognition for sustainable practices, an environmental partner can offer the on-the-ground support necessary for implementing these practices. EHS vendors like My Green Lab’s Accelerator Partner Triumvirate Environmental can support your lab’s journey towards sustainability. With a deep-set commitment to sustainability and an expansive set of service offerings, including sustainable waste management, from upstream waste management to downstream recycling and other green disposal, Triumvirate Environmental has the know-how—and the onsite support—to help you succeed.

Whether you seek guidance on best practices, insights into broader organizational initiatives, leadership for your sustainability committee to drive innovation and success, or physical waste and onsite services, Triumvirate Environmental, with over 65 My Green Lab Ambassadors and more than 10 My Green Lab Accredited Professionals on their team, can serve as the catalyst to empower labs toward sustainable excellence.

Building a Sustainable Future Together

Regardless of what you need, a partnership with an experienced environmental services provider can help you fully achieve your sustainability goals. With a suite of trained consultants, national reach, and backed by a team of qualified and dedicated onsite support staff, Triumvirate Environmental is well-equipped to support your lab’s journey towards sustainability. As our Accelerator Partner, Triumvirate Environmental has everything you need to succeed in your My Green Lab Certification journey.
Our collaboration with Triumvirate Environmental underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to sustainability. By leveraging the strengths of both My Green Lab and an environmental partner, labs can achieve their sustainability goals more effectively and efficiently. Together, we can make a significant impact on the environmental footprint of the scientific community.

To learn more, you can visit Triumvirate Environmental’s Lab Sustainability Services page.

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Five Strategies to Empower Laboratories for a Greener Tomorrow https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/five-strategies-to-empower-laboratories-for-a-greener-tomorrow/ Fri, 19 Apr 2024 17:44:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=37776

The celebration of Earth Day serves as a reminder for us to reflect on our relationship with the planet and the impact of our actions. Every facet of our lives intertwines with the environment, both personally and professionally. In the laboratory, where innovation and scientific advancement take center stage, our impact may often go unnoticed.

This Earth Day, let’s collectively examine how our actions within the laboratory extend beyond its walls and commit to meaningful steps towards positive change. By building a culture of sustainability, and embracing the idea that our actions can, and should, change, we pave the way for a greener, healthier future. 

To capture the spirit of Earth Day, we’ve shared five actionable approaches aimed at fostering a culture of sustainability within laboratory settings.

 

1. The My Green Lab Theory of Change

At My Green Lab, our goal is to empower individuals to contribute to a culture of change in their organization. In order to engage and inspire colleagues and those in your community to make sustainable change, it can be helpful to situate behavior within a “Theory of Change” framework. 

Graph showing engagement and impact

The Theory of Change begins with awareness. First, we must become aware that there is a problem and understand that we can behave differently. This awareness drives action – breaking old habits to make way for new behaviors. Through actionable pathways to learning and implementing sustainability best practices, you build the confidence to continue going further in making a difference. This confidence will allow you to take leadership of initiatives, inspiring others around you to follow in your footsteps.  As more people begin to adopt new behaviors, these practices become the norm, creating a positive and lasting culture of sustainability. As this culture grows, sustainability practices become institutionalized through policies, procedures, and organization level goals. And a collection of organizations with sustainable lab cultures creates a global community of passionate and active sustainability champions that fundamentally shift the way science is conducted.

The strength of this approach lies in its accessibility; even if you don’t currently have institutional support for your sustainability ideas and initiatives, you can start anyway, with individual awareness, collective action, and leadership. Build the momentum that will result in cultural change in your lab and in the global community. By fostering momentum, you can drive cultural shifts within your laboratory and contribute to broader global change.

2. The Power of Community

Community plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable action. Through shared experiences and collective efforts, individuals in and around the lab learn, grow, and hold each other accountable.

Embrace the power of community by spreading awareness and sharing the knowledge you’ve learned with those around you. “Our hearts and minds can be more easily moved by those closest to us,” says My Green Lab’s Senior Programs Manager Christina Greever-Wilson. “This is why we shouldn’t be shy about sharing our own lab sustainability goals – and successes – with others in our network. For someone who is on the fence about sustainability, hearing from a friend or colleague in their own community about the ease of making sustainable actions can make a huge difference.”

3. Leadership and Communication

Clear communication and regular engagement with stakeholders are crucial for embedding sustainability into the culture of your lab or organization. When thinking about and planning your lab’s sustainability journey, provide ample opportunity for input and feedback, especially from scientific teams, who often have valuable insights into resource consumption and can test new sustainable protocols and processes. By actively listening to stakeholder ideas, the entire community becomes invested in the sustainability process.

Beyond adopting sustainable practices, leaders must actively engage stakeholders and foster a collaborative environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute to positive change. Regular communication channels, such as meetings, newsletters, or digital platforms, provide opportunities to celebrate successes, address challenges, and keep sustainability goals at the forefront of everyone’s minds.

 Ultimately, by prioritizing transparent communication and inclusive leadership, laboratories can foster a culture where sustainability is embraced as a core value and integrated into everyday practices.

4. Small Yet Impactful Sustainability Practices Matter

Seemingly small changes in laboratory operations can have a significant impact on sustainability. Take, for instance, the simple act of sharing printers among colleagues or setting up printers to default to double-sided, black-and-white mode. This not only reduces paper waste but also contributes to a cleaner laboratory environment by minimizing clutter.

 Does checking for leaky faucets sound too simple? It shouldn’t! Leaky faucets that drip once per second can waste 3,000 gallons of water per year. According to the US EPA, that’s enough water for more than 180 showers!

 Minor adjustments not only contribute to environmental conservation but also foster a culture of sustainability within the laboratory community, where every individual action counts towards a greener future. By emphasizing the importance of individual actions and illustrating the tangible benefits of sustainability practices, leaders can inspire a collective commitment to minimizing environmental footprints. Moreover, by highlighting the cumulative effect of these efforts, laboratories can underscore the significance of every contribution, no matter how modest, in advancing the goal of a greener future.

 5. Planet vs. Plastics

This year’s Earth Day theme is Planet vs. Plastics, with calling for a 60% reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040. Without a doubt, plastic remains one of the most commonly discarded materials in laboratories. Plastic is everywhere in the lab, from tube racks and pipette tips to conical vials and filtration flasks, with the list constantly expanding as research and industries discover new applications for plastic. And while some of this plastic is necessary, there are ways to reduce and reuse, as well as considerations for a plastic to have a different end of life.

Our team has put together a variety of resources to help you kickstart your waste reduction journey. Read our blog post on How to Reduce Waste in the Laboratory, or guest contributions like Sustainable Pipetting: Tips for Reducing Plastic Usage in the Lab and How To Kickstart Your Waste Reduction Journey.

Additionally, those interested in a deeper dive into lab waste can sign up for My Green Lab’s Accredited Professional (AP) Program Module on Waste.

Continuous Improvement

While Earth Month is a significant time to reflect on how our actions impact the earth, it’s important to recognize that your journey doesn’t end here. The path towards a truly sustainable future requires a commitment to continuous improvement. By remaining vigilant, receptive to new ideas, and dedicated to refining your practices, we can build upon our successes and drive even greater positive change.

Embrace the challenge of constant evolution, knowing that every step forward, no matter how small, brings us closer to a more sustainable tomorrow. Together, let’s continue to communicate, educate, and inspire, ensuring that our laboratories not only lead the way in scientific discovery but also serve as beacons of environmental stewardship for generations to come.

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Record-Breaking Success: 2023 Freezer Challenge Reduces Emissions by ~21 Million kWh https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/record-breaking-success-2023-freezer-challenge-reduces-emissions-by-21-million-kwh/ Fri, 18 Aug 2023 19:54:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=38130 Freezer Challenge chart data My Green Lab

My Green Lab and the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL) are thrilled to announce that the 2023 Freezer Challenge has saved a whopping 20.7 million kWh of energy, corresponding to about 14,663 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent — more than double the amount of CO2 saved in last year’s challenge!

In our largest competition ever, nearly 2,000 laboratories around the world participated in the Freezer Challenge — a free competition that promotes energy efficiency through best practices in cold storage management. This year, participating labs contributed to saving energy equivalent to 37.5 million miles driven by an average gas-powered vehicle.

“The success of the 2023 Freezer Challenge underscores the dedicated efforts of thousands of scientists worldwide. Doubling last year’s CO2 savings reflects a shared commitment to sustainable practices in energy conservation,” says James Connelly, CEO, My Green Lab. “The exponential growth in impact from the Freezer Challenge signals a shift in the science industry to embrace sustainability. It proves that small actions in the lab multiplied across the globe can have a significant impact.”

Launched globally in 2017 by My Green Lab and I2SL, the International Laboratory Freezer Challenge has saved 44.7 million kWh worth of energy to date, reducing CO2 emissions by 31,678 metric tons, which is the equivalent of saving energy consumed by 6,164 homes for one year.

This year’s incredible growth is an indication that the scientific sector is taking sustainability seriously. Labs from 27 different countries contributed to a 42% rise in participating organizations compared to 2022, reflecting a wider global involvement.

2023 Freezer Challenge Winners

​With over 26,000 participating cold storage units, thousands of scientists and 170 organizations committed to sustainability took part in making this year’s challenge a success. Over the course of the six-month competition, labs accumulate points for adopting sustainable practices concerning their cold storage units, including actions that enhance energy efficiency, ensure sample accessibility, and maintain sample integrity. To determine the winners, the number of points earned as well as the amount of energy saved by each lab was considered.

​While every participating lab is a winner for helping save an incredible amount of energy, we are proud to recognize labs and organizations in several categories for their noteworthy contributions to the 2023 Freezer Challenge. Winners will be recognized at the upcoming I2SL Annual Conference in October and will also be interviewed for an article in Lab Manager magazine.

map data

Testimonials from Some of Our 2023 Winners 

“We are delighted to be recognised with the Top Organization and Small Size Lab Awards. Participating in the Freezer Challenge is more than a friendly challenge among colleagues; it signifies our collective commitment to sustainable science. Every kilowatt saved reflects our dedication to not only pioneering research but also to safeguarding our planet for future generations. We all have a role to play.” — Juliette White, CBE, Vice President, Global Sustainability and Safety, Health & Environment, AstraZeneca.

“We were delighted to hear the news of winning the award. Signing up to the challenge motivated us to implement a management plan for our cold storage equipment and it was well worth the effort.” — Dr. Jane Kilcoyne, Analytical Chemist at Marine Institute Ireland.

“The GI/Onc group has been a part of the Green Labs initiative here at Hopkins since day one. Earning the Freezer Challenge award is icing on the cake, the cake being our Platinum My Green Lab Certification. We plan on earning Green during our recertification.” — James Leatherman, Lab Manager for GI Oncology Research, Dr. Elizabeth Jaffee and the team at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

List of All Our 2023 Winners:
Note: Winning Streak Awards are given to previous year’s winners that exceeded their energy savings from last year. 

Biotech/Pharmaceutical Sector Winners 

  • Top Organization Award: AstraZeneca
  • Winning Streak Award: Amgen
  • Top Large Lab Award​Genetic Toxicology – Cell Health Assessment of Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson in Belgium
  • Top Medium Lab AwardBioprocess Development (BD) Pre-Pivotal Drug Substance Technology (DST) of Amgen in the United States of America
  • Top Small Lab AwardBiobank Gothenburg of AstraZeneca in Sweden
  • Top Biorepository Award: Labcorp Biorepository – Labcorp Central Laboratory Services


Academic Sector Winners

  • Top Organization Award: University of Alabama Birmingham in the United States of America
  • Winning Streak Award: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in the United States of America
  • Lab Winning Streak Award: The Indiana CTSI Specimen Storage Facility at the Indiana University School of Medicine
  • Top Large Lab Award​GI Onc at Johns Hopkins University
  • Top Medium Lab AwardIllinois Natural History Survey-Wildlife Veterinary Epidemiology Laboratory
  • Top Small Lab AwardKerppola Lab of University of Michigan in the United States of America
  • Top Biorepository Award: Vet Anatomy Dissection Lab of University College Dublin in Ireland

Government Sector Winners

  • Top Government Organization Award:​ National Institutes of Health in the United States of America
  • Top Large Lab Award​CFIA Greater Toronto Area Lab of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency in Canada
  • Top Medium Lab AwardBiochemistry Laboratory of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in the United Kingdom
  • Top Small Lab AwardBiotoxin Chemistry Lab of Marine Institute Ireland in Ireland
  • Top Biorepository Award: Molecular Biology of Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in the United Kingdom

Hospital/Clinical/Other Winners

  • Top Organization Award: Amsterdam UMC
  • Winning Streak Award: Boston Children’s Hospital
  • Top Large Lab Award​Southwest Pathology Services of SYNLAB Group in the United Kingdom
  • Top Medium Lab AwardLab of Experimental Immunology – Klein Lab of University Hospital Cologne in Germany
  • Top Small Lab AwardImmunologic Monitoring and Cellular Products Laboratory of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in the USA
  • Top Biorepository Award: Amsterdam UMC Biobank

Honorable Mentions

  • Organizations (all sectors):
    • Institute of Cancer Research, United Kingdom
    • Johns Hopkins University, United States of America
    • Genentech
    • Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson
    • Q Squared Solutions (IQVIA)
    • Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, United States of America
    • Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, United Kingdom
  • Labs (all sectors, all lab sizes):
    • Cihakova Lab – Johns Hopkins University
    • Quinn/Tobian Lab – Johns Hopkins University
    • Edberg Lab – University of Alabama Birmingham
    • Ray Ming Lab – University of Illinois Urbana Champaign
    • Clinical Research Specimen Processing (CRSP) Core, University of Michigan Health Rogel Cancer Center, USA
    • TS&BA Pathology Lab – Amgen
    • Cardiometabolic Disorders (ASF) – Amgen
    • Lab Services in Slough UK – Avantor/UCB
    • AD Bioassay Cambridge – Biogen
    • DTMP-LECP Team in Belgium – Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson
    • Labcorp Biorepository – Labcorp Central Laboratory Services
    • S&T Labs – Nestlé
    • Maple Leaf Foods, Technical Services, Central Laboratory
    • Integrated Diagnostics – LifeArc
    • Biopathology Center at Nationwide Children’s Abigail Wexner Research Institute
    • Mark Andermann Lab – Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
    • Pathology-Biobanking-Research – Amsterdam UMC
    • Experimental Vascular Medicine Lab of Amsterdam UMC

​Learn more about the Freezer Challenge here.

Interested in getting notified when the 2024 competition launches?
​Sign up via the button below.

The Freezer Challenge is a joint program run by My Green Lab and the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories (I2SL) and is made possible through the generosity of industry sponsors. Our sponsors for the 2023 competition are: Eppendorf, Stirling Ultracold, B Medical Systems, Gilead, Elemental Machines, Amgen, PHCbi, and Thermo Fisher Scientific. 

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How To Kickstart Your Waste Reduction Journey https://mygreenlab.org/the-beaker-blog/how-to-kickstart-your-waste-reduction-journey/ Thu, 27 Jul 2023 20:02:00 +0000 https://mygreenlab.org/?p=37884

Written by Ashley Davis – Global Sustainability Manager, Kimberly-Clark Professional

 

Starting a waste reduction program or becoming a zero-waste organization may seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to be. This article offers a guide for creating a successful waste reduction program and the steps you need to take to get there.

The Waste Walk: Exploring Your Organization’s Waste Landscape

One of the best ways to begin your waste reduction journey is to conduct a waste walk or a series of waste walks, depending on the size of your organization.

A well-planned waste walk can help you determine the opportunities for optimizing management of waste streams and figure out what can be diverted. A waste walk, also known as a Gemba Walk in the practice of Lean and Six Sigma, means taking the time to watch how a process is done and talking with those who do the job.

At Kimberly-Clark Professional, we conduct waste walks to help shape our understanding of what’s going on within a facility and its operations. But don’t view it as a simple stroll through your facility. A waste walk should be properly planned and executed at different times throughout the day. Be sure to document findings during your waste walk by taking note of what the waste streams are composed of, why the waste is being generated, how and where the waste is being collected, and what form the waste is shipping out in. Last, be sure to take photos of your waste.

Key items to observe and capture during a waste walk include:

  • Behavior of personnel around waste management
  • Waste and material flow throughout the site
  • The location of all collection bins
  • Disposal fees for waste tonnages

Leadership and Stakeholder Alignment: Support and Collaboration

A waste walk should be properly planned and supported by all stakeholders at the site. Make sure that leadership is involved from the start regarding the scope of work and key waste contributors. Align on outcomes and set timelines for mapping out your waste reduction plan. End users should also be included since they will ultimately be involved in implementing your waste reduction plan.

Assessing and Prioritizing Solutions

Once you have collected as much detail as possible from your waste walk, you can begin to assess and prioritize the work ahead. Your assessment should include:

  • The largest volumes of waste
  • The largest valued materials
  • The easiest solutions
  • The most challenging solutions

Next, you need to determine solutions for your waste. Some facilities generate what we refer to as “simplistic” wastes, such as paper, cardboard, aluminum, and general trash. For these types of waste, a good initial step is to reach out to a local waste management organization to find out what solutions they can provide. See if your materials can be recycled or given a second life.

For operations that generate a multitude of complex waste streams, such as rubber, fiber, PPE, electronics, or polymers, you may need to go down a different path. First, find a waste consultant who specializes in diverting these types of materials. Have them come in and assess ways to improve segregation, collection, and material flow to redirect wastes to new applications that are more composition specific.

There are potential opportunities to receive revenue to help defray waste management fees. For example, if you’re using many different polymers at your site, a consultant can help you determine if your waste has value to a resin producer who can sell used materials into injection molding. If so, you can receive revenue here. Or, if you are recycling fiber, you could get paid for those materials, as well.

For more complex streams, a waste consultant can help you evaluate all the services that are available. If you’re a national or international organization, strategic partnerships like these can help you maximize the benefits by addressing waste issues at multiple sites.

And don’t forget to leverage your organization’s internal expertise. If you have in-house experts in waste and recycling, lean on them to help you assess the composition of your materials and your waste streams as well as specific recycling solutions. These experts can work directly with procurement to manage recycling relationships and outlets. This option is particularly valuable for manufacturing environments with waste streams that may command a higher value in the recycling market.

A rule of thumb for prioritizing your waste solutions and investment opportunities: the larger the volume, the larger the value.

Building Effective Partnerships 

Waste is an inevitable aspect of facility operations. If it is not managed properly, it can impact an entire site’s operations. Developing strong relationships with your facility teams and your waste and recycling partners is critical. They can help ensure support for your operations today as well as help you evolve your solutions for the future as new technologies come into the market and as waste streams evolve.

When choosing a waste and recycling management partner, you should ensure that they:

  • Provide contracts with clearly outlined expectations
  • Supply financial and compliance information
  • Give you access to regular diversion data

In addition, you should require approval for all waste and recycling outlets prior to any changes and specify that there will be no exporting of materials. Last, make sure your waste recycling partner provides you with a certificate of destruction.

Remember that a waste and recycling journey takes time. You can’t get there all at once, nor can you do it alone. Choose partners who will assist you in your journey. This could include manufacturer-led initiatives for recycling certain consumables, such as PPE, and “middlemen” who will help provide your waste with a second life. Whatever you do, take your time, be thorough, and choose reputable partners with a proven and verifiable track record of success.

Ashley Davis is Global Sustainability Manager for Kimberly-Clark Professional. For more information, visit www.KCProfessional.com.

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