The Department of Chemistry is delighted to have secured a LEAF Silver Award for the Physical and Analytical Chemistry Teaching laboratory. LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) is a programme established by University College London (UCL) to help integrate sustainability practices into laboratory spaces. By taking part in the programme, laboratories will reduce waste, save money and reduce their carbon emissions whilst still conducting high-quality teaching and research.

Some of the sustainable practices that have been deployed by Teaching Laboratory Technician Naseem Aktar in the Physical and Analytical Chemistry Teaching Laboratory are:

· Keeping sashes of fume hoods closed when not in use, thereby reducing energy consumption.

· Ensuring all electrical experimental apparatus, such as hotplates, pH meters, etc., are switched off at the end of each practical session.

· Switching off glass drying cabinets overnight.

· Introduction of ‘non-contaminated’ plastic and glass bins.

· Teaching students optimal techniques for rinsing out glassware to reduce water wastage.

· Raising awareness of sustainability during practical sessions, so that it becomes common practice.

Head of Chemistry, Dr Nick Evans says, “I’m pleased to see the department gain its first LEAF Silver Award. Over the coming months, we are aiming for all our laboratories to secure LEAF recognition.”

Lancaster University declared a climate emergency in 2020 and has developed an ambitious strategy to help achieve a goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2035. Through active engagement with programmes such as LEAF, the Department of Chemistry is helping to contribute towards Lancaster University’s net zero target.