Science

Karen has been involved in the Green Labs Program since 2009; in that time, she and other Michael Smith Laboratories members have made waste and energy reduction part of the department culture.

Examples of sustainability initiatives that have been implemented in MSL include:
• The introduction of many waste reduction or diversion programs, such as Styrofoam, ice packs, soft plastic, amber lab glass, plant research compost, batteries, pen and pencils, printer tonners, light bulbs, and electronic waste;
• New employees and student researchers participating in a building orientation that explains department resources, safety protocols, and segregation of waste, leaving new department members empowered and ready to become a part of the solution;
• Championing the ultra low freezer chill-up challenge;
• A ventilation pilot in labs to measure air contaminants in real-time and adjust minimal flow rates accordingly;
• Regular participation in the Shut the Sash campaign;
• Evaluation pilot for non-variable flow fume hoods;
• Awarded a Green Labs Fund grant for a project to retrofit plant growth lights with LED lights.