Sustainable Labs

Partners around Grounds rallied behind an effort to upgrade one of the University’s most energy-intensive buildings, reducing the building’s annual energy costs by 30%. 

The 2025 Shut the Sash Competition brought together 27 labs across Grounds to encourage safe and sustainable use of chemical fume hoods. Researchers consistently kept sashes closed on 86 chemical fume hoods throughout the competition.  

UVA’s Biomedical Engineering Department just celebrated the launch of their first sustainability plan—setting a bold example for other academic departments on Grounds. 

On Wednesday, April 23rd UVA’s Sustainable Labs Program will host its annual Green Labs Resources Fair for researchers across the University and UVA Health System at Pinn Hall Conference Center, near the UVA Health Medical Center, from Noon to 3 PM.

Walking down the corridor of the 3rd floor West Complex you might pass a door that has not one, not two, but three golden plaques hanging outside the door. This is the Civelek Lab, a 3-time recipient of  UVA Green Lab certification. Since 2019, Dr. Mete Civelek and his lab have been revolutionizing research while reducing their environmental footprint. They’re not the only ones though.  

The 2024 Shut the Sash Challenge at UVA successfully engaged 25 research labs and 184 researchers in promoting lab safety and sustainability. Learn about the three labs that were recognized!

Check out the progress we're making as a university on the sustainability front in our 2023-2024 Annual Report! 

This year, UVA Green Labs programs saw a 56% increase in participation in the Freezer Challenge, with thirty nine labs participating across the University.

The Kibbe-Tsihlis Lab recently became a Gold Certified Green Lab for incorporating sustainability into their laboratory practices.  

This guide can support your lab in mapping out the process of getting certified. Use this tool to maintain your group's momentum and keep your eyes on the prize!