GreenLabs
Laboratory research plays a central role at ETH Zurich but also comes with a significant environmental impact. The GreenLabs initiative, hosted within the ETH Sustainability Office, supports laboratories in making their operations more sustainable and resource efficient. It serves as an idea hub where researchers and technical staff can exchange best practices, explore innovative solutions, and receive guidance on reducing energy use, material waste, and emissions in everyday lab work.
The carbon footprint of ETH’s laboratories
Laboratory research often provides the foundation for scientific and societal progress. However, it also entails a considerable environmental impact. Laboratories worldwide are estimated to generate around two percent of global plastic waste (external page Urbina et al 2015), and on average, consume five to ten times more energy than conventional office spaces (external page EPA 2008). In Switzerland, the average per-capita carbon footprint is about 12 t CO?e per year (Bernauer 2024). For scientists, depending on their research field and the type of infrastructure they use, this figure can increase by an additional 10 to 40 t CO?e annually (external page Torres et al 2024).
ETH Zurich has been monitoring its environmental performance for over two decades. The indirect greenhouse gas emissions associated with procured consumables such as laboratory equipment, scientific apparatus, machines, and tools amount to approximately 55,000 t CO?e. This represents about one-third of all indirect (Scope 3) emissions at ETH Zurich.
GreenLabs idea hub
On the path to net zero, even small changes in laboratory operations, for example in procurement practices or daily usage routines, can make a big difference to ETH Zurich's greenhouse gas balance.
Initiated by employees from the Department of Biology (D-BIOL), the GreenLabs idea hub now drives multiple projects aimed at improving laboratory sustainability, raising awareness and connecting sustainability enthusiasts. The hub serves as a platform for exchanging ideas and implementing practical measures that make laboratory work more resource-efficient and environmentally responsible.
In addition, ETH Zurich participates in the external page GreenLabs Zurich initiative together with UZH and collaborates with other institutions through the SwissGreen Labs network to share knowledge and promote best practices nationwide.
Our activities
One of the flagship projects of the GreenLabs idea hub is the certification of laboratories based on their sustainability performance. The aim is to make progress toward more resource-efficient operations both visible and measurable.
To achieve this, ETH Zurich uses dedicated assessment platforms that allow laboratories to evaluate their environmental impact, track improvements over time, and compare their performance with other groups. Participating labs receive certification that recognises their efforts to reduce energy use, minimise waste, and adopt sustainable procurement and working practices.
Over 40 ETH laboratories have already been certified, demonstrating that targeted measures and behavioural changes can lead to tangible reductions in resource consumption and emissions. These certifications also help create a culture of sustainability, motivating other research groups to participate and share successful approaches.
Sustainability in the laboratory can be challenging to navigate: researchers and technical staff often want to reduce their environmental impact, but it is not always clear which actions make the greatest difference, what options are available, or which local rules and initiatives apply.
The ETH GreenLabs Wiki addresses this by gathering comprehensive information on laboratory sustainability in a single, accessible platform. It provides verified guidance on practical measures, shares best practices from across ETH, and highlights ongoing initiatives. The Wiki is designed as a collaborative resource that can grow and improve with contributions from the community, and all ETH staff and researchers are invited to join in and help expand it.
In addition to laboratory certifications and the Wiki, GreenLabs is supporting several projects aimed at improving day-to-day laboratory sustainability. One focus is optimizing waste management: this includes clearer labelling of waste streams, standardizing containers, and supporting proper disposal practices to reduce contamination and increase recycling.
Another ongoing project involves estimating energy use in laboratories and entire buildings, with particular attention to cooling equipment, which are among the most energy-intensive pieces of equipment in life-science labs. By quantifying energy consumption, the initiative helps laboratories identify high-impact measures to reduce electricity use and associated greenhouse gas emissions.
GreenLabs thrives on collaboration and participation. Researchers, technical staff, and students are all invited to contribute ideas, share best practices, and take part in ongoing sustainabilityprojects.
There are many ways to get involved, from helping expand the GreenLabs Wiki, supporting waste reduction and energy-efficiency initiatives, to participating in lab certification efforts. Every contribution helps make ETH Zurich’s laboratories more resource-efficient and environmentally responsible.
Do you have questions or want to get involved? Sign up below to join one of the next informal meetups or contact us directly at .