Green Labs
Working together to reduce the environmental impact of scientific research. Every action counts!
La Trobe University is home to Australia’s first research laboratory to receive certification from My Green Lab, considered the global standard for laboratory sustainability best practices. The La Trobe Green Labs program strives to create a scientific landscape where environmental responsibility is woven into the fabric of our research. We aim to:
- Minimise our ecological footprint: We envision laboratories and research facilities as hubs of innovation that leave a minimal impact on our planet. Through conscious choices, we aim to reduce resource consumption, waste generation and emissions.
- Champion sustainable practices: Our commitment extends beyond individual actions. We seek to empower a community of scientists who actively embrace sustainable practices. Together, we can drive positive change.
- Lead by example: We recognise our role in shaping the future. By integrating environmental considerations into scientific endeavours, we set a precedent for generations to come.
How we minimise our environmental impact
- Energy efficiency: Green labs optimise energy usage by using energy-efficient equipment, turning off unused devices and implementing smart lighting systems.
- Waste reduction: They minimise waste generation by recycling materials, reusing glassware and properly disposing of hazardous substances.
- Community engagement: They actively participate in sustainability initiatives, collaborate with other labs and share best practices to create a greener scientific community.
- Water conservation: Labs reduce water usage by recycling cooling water, using water-efficient equipment and minimising unnecessary water flow during experiments.
- Chemical alternatives: Green labs explore eco-friendly alternatives to toxic chemicals, reducing environmental impact.
How to get involved
To register your lab as a Green Lab at La Trobe University, please send us an email at greenlabs@latrobe.edu.au. You will need to nominate yourself or another lab member to be your Green Lab representative and have permission from your lab PI.
The Green Lab representative, or lab rep, will act as the point of communication between your group and the Green Labs Team. This can include registering your lab for challenges run throughout the year, participating in initiatives and events, and contributing to discussions about how we can make lab work at La Trobe University more sustainable.
We love to hear your ideas about how we can make lab spaces and practices at La Trobe more sustainable. Please send us an email at greenlabs@latrobe.edu.au with any ideas you have!
What's on
Join us for a monthly discussion series aimed at fostering a collaborative environment for sharing ideas and best practices about sustainability in research. Our goal is to create a platform where we can collectively explore innovative approaches, tackle challenges, and share success stories that can inspire and guide our efforts towards more sustainable laboratory practices.
Bring your lunch, bring a friend, and come with your ideas. This is your platform to ask questions and pitch ideas so you and your lab can make a difference. Look forward to seeing you there!
Held on the 3rd Thursday of every month, 1pm -1:30 pm.
Location: BU-HS1-203 or join the discussion online.