Examples
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.
Counter-examples
Looks similar, but isn't
- Not an instance
A general-purpose office building energy audit is not LEAF; LEAF is laboratory-specific.
- Not an instance
ISO 14001 certification at the organisational level is not LEAF, which operates at the individual lab unit.
Editorial commentary
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.
Also known as
LEAF · Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework · UCL LEAF
Machine-readable encodings
Use in your systems
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