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Researchers in the Heng Research Lab have been awarded LEAF Gold accreditation for embedding sustainable practices across their laboratory operations.

The accreditation recognises the team's efforts to reduce waste, improve resource efficiency and lower the environmental impact of research activities. The award was achieved by both laboratories within the group, led by , Department of Chemical Engineering.

Professor Omar Matar, Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering, said:

This achievement reflects the team's commitment to integrating sustainability into their research environment. Their efforts demonstrate how laboratories can reduce their environmental impact while continuing to support world-leading research.

Supporting more sustainable research

The Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF), developed by University College London (UCL), provides a framework for laboratories and technical workspaces to improve sustainability. Gold accreditation is awarded to teams that demonstrate sustained commitment to reducing waste, lowering energy consumption and embedding environmentally responsible practices.

The recognition highlights how sustainability can be integrated into laboratory research while maintaining high standards of scientific excellence.

Professor Jerry Heng, academic lead, said: "This LEAF Gold Award is a collective achievement that reflects the commitment of everyone in the group to improving the sustainability of our laboratory practices." 

We are grateful to colleagues within and beyond the group who supported these efforts. While we are pleased to receive this recognition, we see it as part of an ongoing process of continuous improvement. Professor Jerry Heng Academic Lead

Research to laboratory practice

The Heng Research Lab conducts research in crystallisation science and engineering, where efficiency, process design and scalability are central considerations. These principles have also shaped the group's approach to laboratory operations.

By reviewing how materials, solvents and energy are used, the team has introduced practices that support more sustainable research and encourage researchers to consider the environmental impact of experimental work.

The team plans to build on this work by continuing to identify opportunities to improve resource efficiency and reduce the environmental footprint of laboratory research.