LEAF: Lab Efficiency Framework

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Worked examples

Is an instance

A molecular biology lab achieves Bronze LEAF by labelling -80 degC freezers, running an annual sample audit, and posting waste-segregation signage.

Is an instance

A chemistry department uses aggregated LEAF dashboard data to report scope-3 procurement reductions to its sustainability office.

LEAF was launched in 2018 to give laboratories a structured, low-burden way to improve sustainability while also reducing operational cost. Each criterion is mapped to a measurable behaviour (for example, closing fume-cupboard sashes, warming -80 degC freezers to -70 degC, consolidating supplier deliveries) and submitted through an online dashboard that estimates annual carbon and financial savings. LEAF is now adopted across more than 80 institutions internationally and is often used as the entry-level scheme before pursuing My Green Lab certification. It is referenced in funder sustainability guidance (UKRI, Wellcome) as evidence of laboratory environmental stewardship.

References

University College London: LEAF Sustainable Laboratories Programme; UKRI Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does LEAF stand for?

LEAF stands for Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework, a sustainability accreditation scheme for laboratories launched in 2018.

Who runs the LEAF scheme?

LEAF is run by University College London (UCL) as part of its Sustainable Laboratories Programme.

What accreditation levels does LEAF award?

Labs that complete a LEAF assessment can achieve Bronze, Silver, or Gold accreditation, scored across categories including energy, waste, water, and procurement.

What does a LEAF assessment actually measure?

Each LEAF criterion is tied to a specific, measurable lab behaviour, such as keeping fume-cupboard sashes closed, running ultra-low freezers at -70 degC instead of -80 degC, and consolidating supplier deliveries. Labs log this through an online dashboard that estimates the resulting carbon and financial savings.

How does LEAF relate to My Green Lab certification?

LEAF is commonly used as a lower-burden, entry-level sustainability scheme that labs complete before pursuing the more rigorous My Green Lab certification.

Is LEAF accreditation recognized by research funders?

Yes. LEAF is referenced in funder sustainability guidance, including from UKRI and Wellcome, as evidence of a laboratory’s environmental stewardship.

Use in your systems

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Schema.org DefinedTerm (JSON-LD)

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