1
Sep
Green Lab Certification: What Australian Laboratories Need to Know
As sustainability becomes a global priority, laboratories are being recognised not just for their research but also for their environmental practices. Green Lab Certification programs are emerging as benchmarks of excellence, helping schools, universities, and industry labs prove their commitment to reducing energy, water, and plastic waste. For Australian laboratories, understanding the certification process ensures both compliance and recognition.
Why Green Lab Certification Matters
Laboratories consume up to five times more energy and water than office spaces, making them key targets for sustainability improvements. Certification programs, such as My Green Lab Certification and LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework), provide structured pathways for labs to measure, reduce, and report their environmental impact.
Certification not only improves efficiency but also:
- Demonstrates compliance with ISO 14001 environmental management systems.
- Enhances eligibility for funding and partnerships.
- Attracts students, researchers, and staff who value sustainability.
Comparing Green Lab Certification Programs
| Feature | My Green Lab Certification | LEAF (UK, now global) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Energy, water, waste, procurement | Energy, waste, circular economy |
| Assessment | Online self-assessment + audit | Tiered bronze, silver, gold levels |
| Global Reach | Widely used in US, EU, Australia | Growing adoption in universities worldwide |
| Recognition | Industry standard, backed by ACS & I2SL | Endorsed by UK universities, EU labs |
| Focus Area | Comprehensive lab sustainability | Accessible, step-by-step framework |
Case Study: Australian University Adoption
The University of Queensland became one of the first Australian universities to trial the My Green Lab Certification across biomedical research facilities. Labs reported a 25% reduction in energy consumption and a 40% cut in single-use plastics within the first year.
Meanwhile, smaller institutions like Victorian secondary schools have begun adopting LEAF-style frameworks, applying simplified tiers of certification to encourage sustainable practices in teaching labs.
LabChoice Advantage
LabChoice Australia supports certification goals by supplying BORO 3.3 glassware and recyclable plasticware, both compliant with sustainable procurement principles. Durable, reusable labware reduces waste streams and supports labs in meeting certification benchmarks for resource efficiency.
FAQs
Is certification mandatory in Australia?
No, but it is increasingly recognised by universities and funding bodies as a marker of sustainable excellence.
Which certification is best for teaching labs?
LEAF offers an accessible, stepwise approach, while My Green Lab Certification is more comprehensive for research labs.
How long does certification take?
Typically 3–12 months, depending on the scope of lab practices and readiness for audits.
Can switching to BORO 3.3 glassware help certification?
Yes. Replacing disposables with durable BORO 3.3 glass supports compliance with waste reduction and circular economy criteria.
📚 References
Standards & Guidelines
- ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental management systems — Requirements with guidance for use. International Organization for Standardization.
- AS/NZS ISO 20400:2018 – Sustainable procurement — Guidance. Standards Australia & Standards New Zealand.
Certification Programs & Reports
- My Green Lab Certification – Official Program for Sustainable Lab Practices.
https://www.mygreenlab.org - LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) – Green Lab Certification Framework.
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/sustainable/leaf - CSIRO – Green Labs Australia Guidance – Implementing Certification Pathways in Research Labs.
https://www.csiro.au - University of Queensland – Sustainability Report (2022) – Certification Success and Resource Reduction.
