Within the framework of its commitment to sustainability and responsible research, IQS commenced the international My Green Lab certification process for its research laboratories in 2025. Recognized worldwide and endorsed by the United Nations Race to Zero initiative, this accreditation is considered the global benchmark standard for promoting sustainable practices in scientific laboratories both in academia and in the industrial sector.
IQS commences the "My Green Lab" certification process to advance sustainability in its laboratories
Earning this certification forms part of IQS’s sustainability strategy, which includes concrete actions to reduce environmental impacts and promotes social responsibility in all its activities.
Sustainable management and training for the research community
With nearly 1,000 work stations, IQS laboratories play an essential role in research and teaching. The sustainable management of IQS laboratories is key to the institution’s commitment to sustainability.
Not only does this certification process have a positive environmental impact, but it also features a strong training component for everyone who works with the laboratories, from professors and technical staff to students. Everyone involved gains more sustainable and efficient knowledge and work habits in research laboratories and teaching laboratories.
Leading research laboratories in certification and scientific leadership
The first laboratories to be certified under My Green Lab were the Biochemistry laboratory, an area led by Dr Antoni Planas, and the Organic Synthesis laboratory, an area led by Dr Ricardo Massarico.
Review of 14 key areas to improve operations
During the certification process, laboratory operations are reviewed in 14 key areas, including aspects such as:
- efficient use of energy and water;
- waste management and reduction;
- sustainable and responsible purchasing;
- management of chemicals and reagents;
- information and communication technologies (ICTs) applied to sustainability;
- and implementing green chemistry principles.
Based on this analysis, IQS is implementing real and tangible improvements that reduce the environmental impact of its operations without compromising the quality or scientific excellence that characterize the institution’s research activity.
The aim is to close the process over upcoming months by earning the My Green Lab certification. During the second phase, this certification process will be extended to other research and teaching laboratories. Currently, more than 4,500 laboratories around the world – both in the industrial and academic sectors – have already earned this certification, which is considered a seal of environmental quality and scientific excellence.
A project aligned with Agenda 2030
This project forms part of the initiatives promoted by the IQS Sustainability Committee and contributes directly to the sustainable development goals (SDGs) supported by Ramon Llull University’s (URL) Agenda 2030.
In addition, IQS is pleased to employ a My Green Lab Accredited Professional, Dr Cristina Alonso Alija, director of CIR UNIJES Environment and Ecology, who leads and coordinates this process within the institution.
With the My Green Lab certification, IQS is consolidating its commitment to excellent research through sustainability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility criteria, reinforcing its role as a leading university in innovation, science, and its commitment to the environment.
This action comes along with other recent initiatives, such as the visit to FCC Ámbito’s waste management plant in Montmeló, all of which form part of an overall strategy aimed at reducing environmental impacts and promoting a culture of sustainability throughout the IQS community.