Laboratory-based research is essential for advancing society but it is also extremely energy and resource intensive. It’s estimated that laboratories are responsible for around 2% of global plastic waste and use 3-10 times more energy per meter squared than a typical office.

By joining the LEAF programme, laboratories reduce their carbon emissions and create an environment that supports research quality.

Laboratories are awarded either a Bronze, Silver, or Gold level depending on how many sustainability actions they take.

The LEAF programme comprises four elements:

1. The Framework: An online tool that guides users through sustainability actions to save plastics, water, energy and other resources in their laboratory.
2. Online calculators: To help measure financial and carbon impact. You can estimate how sustainable your lab is now and track improvements.
3. Toolkit and Resources: From guides to sustainable lab equipment and consumables to induction and exit procedures. 
4. User Engagement & Training: We offer each institution a tailored workshop to engage laboratory staff and students on sustainable science, and to introduce LEAF.

> Read about the impact of LEAF 
> Read LEAF FAQs

How to make your Lab more sustainable