LEAF
LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) was designed to improve the sustainability of laboratories. The online platform has actions for lab users to complete relating to waste, travel, energy, water and more. Rationale and guidance are available for all actions.
LEAF was developed and is managed by UCL, and Newcastle University is now offering this scheme to our colleagues working in practical spaces.
The framework’s actions are designed for ‘wet labs’, but there are actions that can be completed by other types of laboratory or practical workspace.
Lab Groups work through Bronze, Silver and Gold criteria, only progressing to the next level when they’ve finished the previous level. Lab Group progress will be assessed by the Sustainability Team at regular intervals and certification awarded when levels have been completed.
When you register, you'll create your Lab Group or join an existing Lab Group (contact sustainable-campus@newcastle.ac.uk if you cannot find your work area when you join LEAF). You will also be added to the 'LEAF @ NU' Microsoft Team.
Please read through the detailed LEAF User Guide (Word: 2,458 KB)!
Recognition
Lab groups who have achieved Bronze, Silver and Gold accreditation are recognised and celebrated each year at the Vice Chancellor's Celebrating Succes: Environment Awards.