Purdue’s Environmental Health and Safety and Sustainability departments partner to introduce new Green Labs initiative

Laboratories are among the most resource-intensive facilities on university campuses, consuming up to 10 times more energy than similarly sized commercial buildings and generating substantial amounts of chemical, physical and hazardous waste. To promote sustainable practices within labs and grow the sustainability culture across campus, the university’s Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) and Sustainability departments have partnered to implement the Purdue Green Labs Program. By integrating eco-friendly practices and technologies, the program ensures that scientific work remains uncompromised while significantly reducing environmental impact.

Campus labs interested in participating will start by filling out an interest form, after which a meeting with a Green Labs team member will be scheduled. During this meeting, lab personnel can discuss their current practices and receive recommended sustainability practices. Following the initial meeting, a Green Labs team member will conduct a baseline assessment, tour the lab and evaluate current practices. The lab will receive tailored recommendations and resources to enhance its sustainability efforts. Once the lab is ready, a certification assessment will determine the lab’s sustainability rating.

“At Purdue, we are committed to fostering a culture of sustainability across all aspects of campus life, including our laboratories,” said Eric Butt, director of EHS. “The Green Labs Program not only helps reduce our environmental footprint but also promotes innovative and efficient practices that enhance the safety and productivity of our research facilities.”

By adopting more sustainable practices, labs can reduce costs and foster a collaborative community. Implementing the recommended practices will extend the lifespan of essential equipment and use resources more efficiently, while creating a network of eco-conscious researchers. Additionally, achieving the Green Lab certification will open the door to more grant opportunities, further expanding the research potential at Purdue.

“Transforming our laboratories into models of sustainability is crucial for reducing our environmental impact,” said Anthony Gillund, director of Sustainability. “We encourage all campus labs to participate in this program, seize the opportunity to innovate sustainably and contribute to a greener Purdue.”

The Green Labs Program is a significant step toward a more sustainable future for Purdue. By integrating these practices, the program aims to create a culture of sustainability that benefits the environment, enhances lab efficiency and promotes collaboration.

Environmental Health and Safety and Sustainability are part of the Administrative Operations organization. Administrative Operations supports the university through safe, reliable and transformative services. Looking for ways to innovate and increase sustainability practices on campus is just one way the organization powers Purdue.