This is an optional Innovation & Leadership (IL) credit. IL credits recognize institutions that are seeking innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and demonstrating sustainability leadership in ways that are not otherwise captured in STARS. Scoring in the Innovation and Leadership section is capped at 10 bonus points total.
Credit Language
IL 12: Green Laboratory Program – version 3.0
Questions & Answers
How has this credit changed between STARS Version 2 and Version 3?
This bonus credit now focuses on lab certification, whereas this credit under 2.2 focused on areas of emphasis (e.g., energy conservation, water conservation, chemical use, and disposal, etc.). A comprehensive list of differences can be found in the STARS 3.0 Summary of changes.
Does a formal green laboratory certification program have to be in place, or can we count practices related to green laboratories?
Formal certification through My Green Lab or an equivalent green laboratory program is required to earn this bonus point.
Resources, Templates & Tools
Suggestions for Institutions
- Work with your institution’s lab managers to determine whether green lab certification has been achieved, and/or to consider implementing such programs.
Potential Data Quality Issues
- Documentation of certification through My Green Lab or an equivalent program focused on laboratory sustainability is required.
- If earning the full 1 bonus point, there must be indication that 50% or more of the institution’s laboratories are certified.