# Green Lab Best Practices Database **URL:** https://network.greenyourlab.org/c/green-lab-best-practices-database/5.md [Latest](https://network.greenyourlab.org/latest.md) · [Categories](https://network.greenyourlab.org/categories.md) · [Tags](https://network.greenyourlab.org/tags.md) --- ## [Welcome to our Green Lab Best Practices Database](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/welcome-to-our-green-lab-best-practices-database/12)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 2, 2021, 3:28am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/welcome-to-our-green-lab-best-practices-database/12 "2021-03-02T03:28:04Z")
2: Get some Green inspiration. Share your best Green Lab tips Collaborative Resouce for Sustainable Lab programs We’re sourcing from our community (that’s you !) the best tips, protocols and resources. So, get your h… --- ## [Reuse](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/reuse/23)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 6, 2021, 6:42pm UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/reuse/23 "2021-03-06T18:42:43Z")
It’s great to reuse your resources. For more sensitive protocols, it can be smart to do some side-by-side experiments to ensure your reuse is not impacting your results. You want to make sure that your washing and steri… --- ## [Auditing](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/auditing/1480)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 26, 2023, 1:09am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/auditing/1480 "2023-05-26T01:09:43Z")
Photo by Department of Earth Science, University of Bergen A structured audit helps you identify which items generate the most plastic waste, test interventions, and measure real improvements over time. This case st… --- ## [Autoclaves](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/autoclaves/51)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 7, 2021, 8:06am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/autoclaves/51 "2021-03-07T08:06:13Z")
Basics Run when full Set up a schedule and a rota to collect (But don’t overfill - make sure there’s steam flow) Encourage staff to group items together thoughtfully before sterilizing, making sure each autoclave c… --- ## [Recycling](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/recycling/24)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 6, 2021, 6:43pm UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/recycling/24 "2021-03-06T18:43:42Z")
Although recycling is great, it’s best to use the Reduce, Reuse, then Recycle mantra - in that order. You will find that the impact of your environmental footprint is reduce\>reuse\>recycle. We have more information on red… --- ## [Small Equipment](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/small-equipment/43)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 27, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/small-equipment/43 "2021-04-27T07:00:00Z")
The average chemistry research student uses 2500 kilowatt hours (kWh) per month. This is a typical breakdown. Switch It Off Switch off any equipment when not in use. Equipment with a heating or cooling function have … --- ## [Convincing others](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/convincing-others/293)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 26, 2021, 11:06pm UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/convincing-others/293 "2021-05-26T23:06:30Z")
Making Sustainability Fun Get Hyped Up Have a launch event for your Green Lab Program. Explain to everyone what you are trying to do, your goals and how they can get involved. Have a 2-way conversation where others can … --- ## [Reduce](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/reduce/20)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 28, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/reduce/20 "2021-04-28T07:00:00Z")
Reduce Experiments We approach every project with a scarcity mind-set. It is important to plan before acting. Look through published literature - for methods, advancements, identical experiments Look through your old d… --- ## [Microscopy/Imaging Lab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/microscopy-imaging-lab/58)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 7, 2021, 8:09am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/microscopy-imaging-lab/58 "2021-03-07T08:09:39Z")
Fluorescence Microscopy Switch from mercury based lamps to LEDs or other solid state bulbs. Murcury blubs are also dangerous as their high internal pressure can cause them to burst, while hot and cold! Example: CoolLE… --- ## [Fridges & Freezers + Cold Storage](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/fridges-freezers-cold-storage/44)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 7, 2021, 7:57am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/fridges-freezers-cold-storage/44 "2021-03-07T07:57:38Z")
Fridges and Freezers can consume a surprising amount of energy. They can account for 5%+ of a laboratory’s electricity use. A -80°C (Ultra-Low Temperature - ULT) Freezer uses as much energy as a home, and that doesn’t in… --- ## [Resources](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/resources/63)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 23, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/resources/63 "2021-04-23T07:00:00Z")
Getting Started Resources Labconscious A guidebook for sustainability in laboratories Green Labs - Short film for outreach Certifications Open LEAF - Free, open to only academic institutions. Includes fantastic cal… --- ## [Waterbaths](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/waterbaths/357)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [June 15, 2021, 11:12pm UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/waterbaths/357 "2021-06-15T23:12:19Z")
Waterbaths Get a Cover Minimizes evaporation and maintains a stable temperature Metallic Bath Beads No water needed No evaporation No microbial growth = no germicides Less cleaning Hold bottles = no racks/weights Re… --- ## [Vivaria](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/vivaria/118)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 22, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/vivaria/118 "2021-04-22T07:00:00Z")
A vivarium is one of the most energy-intensive facilities due to its requirements for scientific integrity, animal welfare, human health and safety, and durability. In a JB&B study, A typical modern office building m… --- ## [Green Buildings and Construction](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/green-buildings-and-construction/54)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 23, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/green-buildings-and-construction/54 "2021-04-23T07:00:00Z")
Planning At the start of the design phase, the design team should compile a comprehensive list of energy conservation measures (ECMs) and share the findings with all stakeholders. This strategy can be applied to both new… --- ## [Vacuum Pumps](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/vacuum-pumps/48)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 24, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/vacuum-pumps/48 "2021-04-24T07:00:00Z")
Oil-Free Alternatives Replace oil-sealed vacuum pumps and water jet aspirators with oil-free screw and diaphragm pumps Consider using screw pumps, which are low-maintenance and do not require oil. They use two contact-f… --- ## [Maintaining and fixing Laboratory Equipment](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/maintaining-and-fixing-laboratory-equipment/25)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 6, 2021, 6:46pm UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/maintaining-and-fixing-laboratory-equipment/25 "2021-03-06T18:46:52Z")
Maintenance It is imperative to keep your equipment maintained in order to extend the longevity of your machinery. Lab Equipment Efficiency By replacing old lab equipment that is no longer efficient you reduce your carb… --- ## [Pipettes, Tips and Boxes](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/pipettes-tips-and-boxes/215)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 6, 2021, 8:21pm UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/pipettes-tips-and-boxes/215 "2021-05-06T20:21:34Z")
Reduce Rethink your pipette strategies Think about how you run your experiments. Is there a way to optimize so that you use fewer pipette tips? Good planning can mean you prepare your samples together and only use one … --- ## [Sharing/Donating/Buying Used](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/sharing-donating-buying-used/26)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 23, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/sharing-donating-buying-used/26 "2021-04-23T07:00:00Z")
The best way to be sustainable is simply not buying new. Chemical Inventory Have a chemical inventory for both your lab and your institution. Using a centralized platform allows everyone to see what is on-site (and even… --- ## [Ice Packs and Polystyrene Containers](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/ice-packs-and-polystyrene-containers/358)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [June 16, 2021, 12:05am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/ice-packs-and-polystyrene-containers/358 "2021-06-16T00:05:44Z")
Ice Packs Reduce Combine ordering with others Look for shelf stable alternative products Reuse This is time to get creative! Assuming they have not interacted with anything hazardous, try looking around in your local c… --- ## [Green Chem in Bio](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/green-chem-in-bio/341)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [June 9, 2021, 12:36am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/green-chem-in-bio/341 "2021-06-09T00:36:38Z")
Western Blots During the step where separated proteins from the gel are transfer an absorbent membrane, a methanol-based transfer buffer is commonly used. Methanol causes retinaland optic nerve damage, metabolic aci… --- ## [Other](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/other/117)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 26, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/other/117 "2021-04-26T07:00:00Z")
Ice Maker Instead of using ice from an ice maker, reuse ice packs or a bag of lentil beans. By choosing air-cooled icemakers, you eliminate the need for water cooling, which reduces water consumption and eliminates the… --- ## [Water-Vaccum Aspirators](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/water-vaccum-aspirators/116)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 27, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/water-vaccum-aspirators/116 "2021-04-27T07:00:00Z")
Water-vacuum filtration is a method of creating a low to moderate vacuum usually for filtration or drying. It uses continuous water flow to pull air from a flask creating the vacuum (see photo). Replace vacuum aspirator… --- ## [Washing Practices](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/washing-practices/52)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 27, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/washing-practices/52 "2021-04-27T07:00:00Z")
Dishwashers Run when full (set up a rota and schedule) Turn off when no in use Try using the Eco-program Check for leaks regularly Handwashing When washing things, don’t just leave the tap running as you walk away. It … --- ## [Auditing](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/auditing/1481)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 26, 2023, 1:11am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/auditing/1481 "2023-05-26T01:11:41Z")
Performing a water audit is an essential step to identify water usage, usage patterns, and potential opportunities for water conservation. This process involves assessing how water is being utilized within a facility and… --- ## [Taps](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/taps/49)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 28, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/taps/49 "2021-04-28T07:00:00Z")
Basics Turn off when not in use Consider spring loaded DI water taps that requires users to manually hold the tap on and eliminate the chances of taps being left on unnecessarily. There are also electronic faucets that … --- ## [Sustainable Procurement](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/sustainable-procurement/963)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [March 1, 2022, 11:06pm UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/sustainable-procurement/963 "2022-03-01T23:06:30Z")
This page gives some general information about putting together a Sustainable Procurement strategy. For specific pieces of equipment or consumables, please also check the relevant page. For example, if you are looking at… --- ## [Other](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/other/122)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 27, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/other/122 "2021-04-27T07:00:00Z")
Sharing Smaller departments or laboratories can explore the option of equipment sharing instead of individually purchasing their own. This approach can be particularly effective for items such as autoclaves, freezers, pr… --- ## [Hvac](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/hvac/206)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 4, 2021, 12:28am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/hvac/206 "2021-05-04T00:28:30Z")
Please see the fumehood section for information specific to fumehoods. Check HVAC schedules and setting so confirm still appropriate for current usage Check that thermal plant is still properly sized for the building C… --- ## [Biocabinets](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/biocabinets/47)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [April 20, 2021, 7:00am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/biocabinets/47 "2021-04-20T07:00:00Z")
Disinfection Biological safety cabinets (BSC) should be switched off when not in use to conserve energy. These cabinets consume a significant amount of energy, roughly equivalent to half the energy usage of a typical hou… --- ## [Healthcare](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/healthcare/211)
**Author:** [@GreenYourLab](https://network.greenyourlab.org/u/GreenYourLab)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 4, 2021, 12:37am UTC](https://network.greenyourlab.org/t/healthcare/211 "2021-05-04T00:37:18Z")
Healthcare facilities in the United States generate approximately 14,000 tons of waste per day. 20 and 25 percent of that can be attributed to plastic packaging and plastic products. 85 percent of the waste generated is … [Next page](https://network.greenyourlab.org/c/green-lab-best-practices-database/5.md?page=1)