SFU’s Green Labs program has received an Environmental Star award in the green choices category from the City of Burnaby for demonstrating a commitment to reducing impact on the environment.

The award recognizes significant environmental achievements by an individual or group over a number of years.

Since its launch in 2010 the Green Labs program has saved the university almost $23,000 in direct energy costs  and has reduced natural gas consumption by more than four per cent.

The program started in SFU’s South Sciences Building, followed by the Shrum Chemistry Centre after its newly completed LEED Gold-certified renovations.

Organized by SFU Facilities Services, the SFU Sustainability Office and occupants of the South Sciences Building, the program involved eliminating inefficient pot lights and introducing competitions between the South Sciences and Shrum buildings that encouraged lab occupants to reduce energy and water use, as well as waste. 

“We're very proud of the faculty, students and staff who have made the Green Labs program possible,” says program coordinator Landon Hoyt. “This award shows that their dedication to sustainability within their lab practices is not going unnoticed."