To promote sustainability in research, the University of Bonn and UKB implemented the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF), a certification program developed by University College London, and successfully piloted it in collaboration with the first laboratories last year. In November 2024, the Sustainability Commission of the Vice Dean’s Office funded the project for Sustainability at the Faculty of Medicine in order to make everyday laboratory work at the university and UKB more efficient and sustainable. After one year, the results are remarkable: five laboratories have successfully obtained LEAF Bronze certification – and that calls for a celebration!
By combining practical measures, scientifically evidence-based standards, and a structured certification system, LEAF supports laboratories in reducing their environmental footprint, conserving resources, and achieving measurable cost savings. The strong collaboration between participating laboratories and the program’s accessible, low-barrier design ensure a smooth implementation process while fostering exchange, networking, and shared learning across institutions.
The establishment of LEAF and the successful participation of all involved laboratories will be celebrated together in January 2026.
Interested laboratories are warmly invited to attend the event to learn more about the LEAF program in an informal setting and to exchange ideas with fellow researchers. The program will feature first-hand experience reports, inspiring keynote talks, and comprehensive information about LEAF. A networking get-together with drinks and light refreshments will follow.
Certificate Ceremony and Networking Reception
22 January 2026 | 5:00–8:00 pm
Alte Sternwarte, Poppelsdorfer Allee 47
Registration for the certificate ceremony is appreciated; however, last-minute attendees are also very welcome.
Would you like to become part of the LEAF laboratories at the University of Bonn and UKB?
Register your laboratory easily by emailing nachhaltige-lehre@uni-bonn.de to join the LEAF program free of charge and contribute to a more sustainable approach to research at the University of Bonn and UKB. The LEAF team will also be happy to provide further information via Sustainability in the laboratory or at ukbmittendrin.