Sustainable Laboratory
As part of the University's ongoing commitment to sustainability, the Sustainable Laboratory provides an opportunity for laboratory environments within the University to assess and reduce their environmental impact.
Findings of the Sustainable Laboratory (previously Green Laboratory) pilot program, 2001
- Lab Awareness Principles
- Final Reports from the pilot program
- Criteria and Action Plan [.doc]
- Gap Analysis Checklist [.pdf]
Sustainable Laboratory Checklist
A Sustainable Laboratory ...
- Is a workplace where everyone has an awareness of their impact on the environment
- Is environmentally minded when purchasing all products used in the laboratory. Asks if the product or packaging is:
- Reusable?
- Recyclable?
- Energy efficient?
- Containing CFC, mercury, asbestos or any form of radiation? If so, Is there an alternative?
- Turns off equipment after use. Shuts down toilet lights, bay lights and computers (including monitors) when absent for over 45 minutes
- Does not leave water running unnecessarily
- Reuses and Recycles ALL clean paper product waste using the recycling bins. Prints and photocopies double-sided where possible and shreds paper for reuse within the University.
- Aims to use less chemicals and always uses a spill tray
- Does not pour chemicals down the sink, but disposes of them according to waste management procedures
- Recycles ALL clean glass (except Schott and Pyrex)
- Aims to use non-disposable laboratory ware as much as possible and minimise consumption of disposable laboratory ware
- Turns fume cupboards off and lowers sash when not in use. Does not store chemicals in fume cupboards.
Download Sustainable Laboratory Checklist [.pdf] Suggested use: colour print, laminate and put on your EHS Noticeboards.