The LEAF framework is a national initiative designed to enhance sustainability within laboratories across the UK. It provides a structured approach for labs to improve energy efficiency, waste management, and overall environmental performance. The certification is divided into three levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—each indicating a progressively higher standard of sustainability. 
Achieving the Gold Award requires not just best practice, but innovation and leadership, and WPL2.09 delivered on all fronts.
The lab team, consisting of Tanisha Dholakia, Richard Harland, and Emma Wilson, impressed reviewers with their forward-thinking approach. During the audit, two highlights stood out:
- Solvent recycling system: By recycling organic solvents in-house, the lab significantly reduces chemical waste and lowers both environmental and financial costs.
- Waterless condensers: These efficient alternatives to traditional water-cooled condensers drastically reduce water consumption during experiments, without compromising performance.
The lab also demonstrated strong engagement with sustainable procurement, energy-saving behaviours, and chemical management, all critical areas within LEAF’s Gold criteria.
Nik Hunt, Environmental Manager, commented: “This is outstanding news and a hearty well done to all involved both in terms of the lab delivery but also the auditors involved. We started with LEAF in 2023 and to now have our first Gold Lab demonstrates our technicians’ commitment to delivering sustainable labs/workshops.
“The LEAF programme not only supports our Sustainability Strategy but offers financial savings as well at a critical time. Reducing what we spend on hazardous waste is a key focus given above inflation costs in this area and greater lifecycle consideration when purchasing equipment often results in lower long-term costs and reduced carbon footprint. Congratulations to the lab team on º£½ÇÉçÇø’s first LEAF Gold and I am sure it won’t be the last.”
The lab’s work directly supports several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including , , and , by reducing chemical waste, lowering energy and water use, and improving lab efficiency.
For more information on LEAF and how other labs can get involved, please visit the Sustainability website or email technicians@lboro.ac.uk.