The Life Sciences Interface Lab at Tyndall National Institute has been awarded Green Level status, becoming Tyndall’s first lab to receive this award.
The Tyndall team, led by Dr Sofia Teixeira, engaged in the globally recognised My Green Lab Certification Programme, which was awarded under the Sustainable Laboratory Certification Pilot Programme, launched in October 2023 by Research Ireland, in partnership with Impact Laboratories and My Green Lab. The initiative aims to bring best-in-class sustainable research practices into Irish research labs.
The Life Sciences Interface Lab’s certification reflects the lab’s leadership in integrating environmentally responsible practices into everyday research operations. The lab focuses on development of sensors and systems for a range of life sciences applications, including healthcare and environmental diagnostics. While maintaining high standards of scientific excellence, the lab has also prioritised reducing its environmental impact by making changes in areas such as chemical management, equipment usage, waste reduction, and energy conservation.
Commenting on the certificate, Dr Teixeira said:
Scientific research and sustainability must go hand in hand. This certification reflects our commitment to responsible science and proves that small, conscious changes in lab practice can lead to significant environmental benefits.
The certification process was supported by lab manager Eileen Hurley, Director of Infrastructure & Technical Services, Derry Kelleher, Head of the Life Sciences Interface Group, Dr Paul Galvin, and the wider Tyndall facilities and safety teams.
Earlier this week, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, announced a total of 72 sustainable laboratory certifications across 12 higher education institutions in Ireland under the Research Ireland pilot programme. Seven of those certifications were awarded to labs based at University College Cork, including the Life Sciences Interface Lab at Tyndall. Tyndall’s certification underscores its leadership in integrating sustainability into everyday lab operations.
Commenting on the announcement, Minister Lawless said:
Research involves more than exploration and discovery; it also demands attention to how we conduct our work and the impact it has on our communities and our planet. Research carries with it a responsibility to operate with integrity, to use resources wisely, and to ensure our pursuit of knowledge does not come at an unsustainable cost to the world around us. I warmly congratulate all the laboratory teams recognised today for their commitment to greener practices.
With this achievement, Tyndall joins a growing network of research organisations globally that are leading by example in sustainable lab practice.
Click here for more information about My Green Lab and the certification programme.
