The Perioperative Medicine and Intensive Care Laboratory (PMI Lab) at the Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC) has been awarded a Platinum Medal by My Green Lab - an internationally recognised certification for sustainability efforts in laboratory environments.
My Green Lab is a non-profit organisation working to improve environmental and sustainability practices in laboratories around the world.
"Every small step matters when it comes to saving our planet. Green Lab is a system that motivates small units and individuals who are passionate about the environment - like Towe Jakobsson in our lab - to work for the environment in a pragmatic way," says Olav Rooyackers , Professor at the Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC) and Head of the Division of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care.
The certification process began with a comprehensive self-assessment across 14 different areas, followed by concrete improvement measures and a follow-up evaluation.
PMI Lab has now reached the second-highest level - the Platinum Medal - which is clear evidence of a determined and successful commitment to environmental sustainability.
"As Head of Department, I am very proud of the sustainability work that has been carried out. The programme is a fine example of something we all need to think more about in the future," says Lars Henningsohn .
Despite the prestigious certification, the work does not stop here. The PMI Lab is continuing to develop its methods, including further reducing the use of chemicals and replacing them with safer alternatives.
Examples of sustainability measures at the PMI Laboratory
- Chemicals: Reduced experiment size to save resources and minimise waste.
- Cooling and Freezing Routines: Regular defrosting of -20°C freezers and scraping of -80°C freezers, along with cleaning of filters and compressors.
- Cold Experiments: Transition to reusable alternatives to wet ice and dry ice.
- Energy Use: Switching off instruments that are not in use.
- Plastic Reduction: Purchasing pipette tips in bulk and reusing uncontaminated plastic materials.
