Roadmap for Green Lab Certification

Researchers: Xindi Liao (MET), Xinyue Zhang (MET), Irene Skandalakis (SOE), Artemiy Yakushin (CAS), Ron Morales (EHS), Dawn Hengl (EHS)

This project is funded by BU Institution for Global Sustainability’s Campus Climate lab, and works in collaboration with the Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) department.

This project aims to assess and accelerate laboratory sustainability pathways in preparation for Green Lab certification of many Boston University research and teaching laboratories. The project team will develop an implementation roadmap aligned with the university’s overall sustainability goals. The project will also ensure that researchers are well-equipped to apply for future funding opportunities that require or give extra points for green lab certification. Green certification will also enhance the university’s research competitiveness and external recognition.

The project will include research on green chemistry, sustainable lab equipment purchasing, and standard operating procedures development, that need to be in place for green laboratory certification. At the same time, the team will develop flexible certification preparation processes that target different types of laboratories (including teaching and research). The team will also develop a certification timeline and evaluation metrics, calculate energy infrastructure needs, and create laboratory public disclosure documents. Training programs will also be designed, incorporating modern teaching methods to enhance researcher engagement and implementation.

Promoting green laboratory certification aligns with Boston University’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) goal of enhancing campus operational resilience through green laboratories. At the same time, substitution of green chemical alternatives for hazardous substances can effectively reduce environmental impact and further demonstrate the university’s leadership in sustainable development and social responsibility.