Previous Funded Projects

This project focused on reducing plastic waste from 3D printing by introducing equipment to recycle unwanted prints and support materials. The system grinds waste into pellets, which are then transformed back into usable 3D printer filament or plastic sheets—creating a closed-loop recycling process within the lab.

Estimated reduction of 7 kg CO₂ per year through reuse of filament spools.

This initiative established a dedicated waste stream for single-use nitrile gloves, allowing uncontaminated PPE to be repurposed or recycled rather than sent to clinical waste. By diverting gloves from incineration, the project significantly reduced both carbon emissions and hazardous waste output. You can read more about implementing this in your lab space in Waste & Recycling.

Estimated reduction of 3 tonnes CO₂ per year. Clinical waste production reduced by over 60%

This project replaced an outdated domestic fridge with a shared commercial-grade reagent fridge in a communal lab space. The upgrade not only improved energy efficiency and storage capacity but also reduced the likelihood of duplicate reagent purchases by improving visibility and access to shared resources.

Estimated cost savings of £225 per year through reduced duplicate purchases.

This project introduced a vacuum system designed to recycle coolant, significantly reducing the frequency of coolant replacement and minimizing waste disposal. By extending the life of the coolant from two months to six, the system enhances both environmental and operational efficiency in the lab.

Estimated savings: coolant waste reduced by over 50%, coolant lifespan extended from 2 months to 6 months.

This project delivered a comprehensive upgrade to the Fish Labs’ infrastructure, including the replacement of 11 pumps, installation of energy-efficient lighting, and the addition of inverters to system pumps. These improvements significantly reduced energy consumption while maintaining optimal conditions for aquatic research.

This has led to 75% energy savings on lighting and 20% energy savings on pumps.

To improve energy efficiency in plant research, this project replaced fluorescent lighting in 10 growth cabinets with 142 energy-saving LED tubes. The upgrade not only reduced electricity use but also improved lighting quality for plant growth.

It is estimated this has has led to 68 kg CO₂ saved per year from reduced energy use.

This dual initiative supported sustainable lab practices by introducing a glasswasher to encourage reusable glassware over single-use plastics, and a water re-circulator to reduce water consumption during distilled water production.

This equipment saves 23,520 litres of potable water annually, equivalent to approximately 8–11 kg CO₂ saved per year.

We have replaced a variety of cold storage units across multiple research facilities with more efficient units, reducing energy consumption and overall freezer count.

Funding for equipment to start up lab plastic recycling, diverting plastic waste from clinical disposal into recycling streams.

Piloting new equipment that targets a 30–50% reduction in electricity use through improved storage and maintenance practices. 

Reducing emissions associated with procurement by enabling in-house production for unique technical spaces.

Enhancing fume hood efficiency & reducing energy demand through installing more vented cabinets for additional storage needs. 

Funding for a laboratory-grade dishwasher aims to use 63% less water than standard models, improving efficiency and reducing resource use.