LJMU recognised for sustainable laboratories

LJMU has been recognised for successfully using sustainable practices within its scientific facilities.

The university has earned the bronze award in the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF), which aims to improve the sustainability and efficiency within laboratories globally.

LJMU has won the award for its best practice in the Pharmacy and Biomolecular Science teaching lab JP4.05/7 in James Parsons Building.

Senior technician Emma Fadden led the work towards the award, which included staff training, assessing waste streams, fume cupboard usage, labelling processes and reducing single-use plastics.

Emma said: “We’re pleased to have secured the bronze LEAF award in recognition of our work to ensure we are following sustainable practices within our laboratories. We are now looking to roll out the initiative in other laboratories across campus, in line with the actions set out in LJMU’s Climate Action Plan.”

About LEAF

LJMU is one of 85 global institutions taking part in LEAF, as part of our collective efforts to tackle the climate emergency. The initiative is led by University College London.

How can I support this work?

There are a large number of simple steps we can take in our laboratories that will have a significant impact on their efficiency and sustainability.

• Chemicals: Follow the 12 principles of green chemistry outlined by the American Chemistry Society.
• Planning: Utilise platforms like ProCuro and SISO to review and share reagents and equipment, reducing the need for shipping and minimizing waste.
• Single-use Plastics: Assess the use of single-use plastics and explore more sustainable sourcing options or alternatives.
• Purchasing: Consolidate orders to reduce the number of deliveries and packaging materials and consider sourcing from suppliers with strong sustainability practices.
• Recycling: Utilise the university's recycling waste streams for non-contaminated materials.
• Energy Conservation: Turn off equipment when not in use and ensure fume hood sashes are closed to reduce energy consumption.
• Temperature Optimisation: Review freezer temperatures and consider storing items at higher temperatures (-70°C instead of -80°C) where appropriate, as this can lead to energy savings without compromising sample integrity.
• Sample disposal: Audit laboratory space to ensure samples are disposed of efficiently in fridges and freezers, optimizing space usage.
• Education: Share sustainable practices to promote awareness and adoption of eco-friendly habits.

Find out more

For more information about LEAF and LJMU’s approach to sustainability in our laboratories, please email the team.