Gold for Peter Mac’s first lab, and the planet!
04 October 2024
The Research Flow Core (RFC) team has achieved Peter Mac’s very first “Gold Certification” for sustainable laboratory operations.
It is also understood to be the first lab in Victoria to achieve this topmost tier of LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) certification.
LEAF is the globally recognised, industry standard for green laboratory operation that encourages more efficient and eco-friendly practices and a culture of sustainability.
Green initiatives introduced by the RFC have included cutting single-use plastics, re-using lasers from decommissioned equipment and changes in operational fluid options.
RFC Manager Eva Orlowski-Oliver said she’s proud to be part of a team and workplace that takes sustainability seriously.
"When our LEAF Champion Elle Aydogan came to me with this initiative I didn't think we could make much of an impact but once the whole team was involved, we could see small easy changes could make a big impact," Mrs Orlowski-Oliver says.
The first Peter Mac labs joined LEAF in 2022 and since then, 27 groups have become involved and collectively they have achieved remarkable results.
So far, 13 of these groups that have achieved bronze certification, four have attained silver certification and this month the RFC team received their gold certification.
It is conservatively calculated that LEAF initiatives across Peter Mac’s labs have led to a reduction of 32 tonnes of CO2 emissions, and at least $43,000 in cost savings.
Acting Executive Director of Cancer Research, Professor Karin Thursky, said the RFC team had set a new standard for green lab operations at Peter Mac.
“The Research Flow Core team is congratulated for their efforts towards creating a greener future while advancing our mission in cancer research and treatment,” Prof Thursky said.
“This serves as an inspiring example for other labs and highlights Peter Mac’s dedication to excellence in sustainability.
“As we continue to engage with the LEAF framework, we remain focused on further reducing our environmental impact and fostering a culture of sustainability right across our unique research driven cancer centre.”
Find out more about the Research Flow Core.