Exchange day on sustainability in research laboratories

In the framework of Eucor's focus area Sustainability, around 15 researchers and laboratory staff from the universities of Freiburg and Strasbourg met on 23 June 2025 in Freiburg. The aim of the meeting was to encourage interdisciplinary exchange on sustainable practices in research laboratories.

The day began with a presentation by Efthimia Yousefi on Labsharing, the sharing of laboratory equipment. She presented a new online platform for pooling equipment, an initiative that not only conserves resources but also reduces waste.

Dr Tim Kunkel then presented the energy savings achieved in recent years in the field of biology. Thanks to the use of LED lighting, the optimisation of ventilation and air conditioning systems, and the use of modern, energy-efficient refrigerators, substantial gains have been made.

The afternoon was devoted to chemistry: Dr Dirk Göppel presented the progress made in terms of energy efficiency during the renovation of the chemistry tower in Freiburg, in particular through the replacement of old fume hoods and better organisation of laboratory spaces.

‘Rich exchanges, lively discussions and concrete ideas for implementation in everyday laboratory practice - it was a successful day in every respect’, summarised Isabelle Schaller (University of Strasbourg) and Sofia Ganter (University of Freiburg), who organised the event with the heads of sustainable development at the Universities of Strasbourg, Victor Dhalmann, and Freiburg, Joscha Hoffmann.

The next exchange day will take place on 18 November 2025 in Strasbourg. It will focus on measuring and reducing the environmental impact of laboratories. There are still a few places available. Registrations are open until 30 September 2025 by email to labor@eucor-uni.org. Participation is free of charge.