Sustainability of Hub operations
Commitment to reducing waste and environmental impact
Sustainability was a key priority in all aspects of the planning and execution of the VaxHub Joint Symposium in Oxford in September 2024. To minimise paper waste, the agenda and event welcome pack were shared electronically/via a QR code.
This approach reduced the use of printed materials and provided attendees with a convenient and efficient way to access event information.
Sustainable catering choices
Catering for the symposium at St Anne’s College, University of Oxford, reflected the Hub’s commitment to sustainability and environmentally responsible practices. The ingredients were sourced from local farms through the Oxfarm to Fork initiative, emphasising seasonal, organic produce grown using regenerative farming methods. Additionally, 95% of the food served was prepared using fully electric appliances powered by Scottish Power’s 100% renewable energy tariff, ensuring a lower carbon footprint. An entirely vegetarian menu was chosen to further reduce the emissions associated with food production. Moreover, the use of plastic bottles at the venues was eliminated, reinforcing efforts to minimise plastic waste. Water stations and reusable glassware were provided as sustainable alternatives.
Encouraging sustainable travel and reducing the carbon footprint
To reduce the need for travel, participants were given the option to join the event virtually, decreasing the overall carbon footprint. The joint hub format further minimised the need for travel and avoided the duplication of resources as delegates attended a single event instead of two separate ones. The venue for the symposium dinner was strategically selected within walking distance of the location of the main event. Delegates were encouraged to walk, allowing them to enjoy great views of Oxford while reducing reliance on transport.
Future sustainability initiatives
The management team is considering the introduction of permanent name tags for meetings. This initiative aims to cut down on single-use materials while supporting recycling efforts. Furthermore, the in-person format of the event facilitates networking opportunities over the two days, reducing the necessity for additional one-off travel. By consolidating multiple meetings into a single event, resource use is optimised leading to an efficient, low-impact gathering.
Through such sustainable practices, the Hub continues to lead by example, demonstrating that responsible event management can significantly contribute to environmental conservation while maintaining a high-quality experience for attendees.
LEAF Accreditation – sustainable laboratories
The LEAF (Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework) initiative aims to improve sustainability standards in laboratories by increasing their efficiency and reducing their environmental impact. Following assessment, participating laboratories are awarded either Bronze, Silver, or Gold.
More information about the scheme, which originated at UCL, is available on the dedicated website.
VaxHub Sustainable Laboratories
LEAF accreditation by academic institution
Gold:
University College London
- UCL Biochemical Engineering: Dr Brenda Parker’s and Dr Duygu Dikicioglu’s labs.
University of Oxford
- Pandemic Sciences Institute: Professor Dame Sarah Gilbert’s
Bronze:
University College London
- School of Pharmacy: Professor Sudaxshina Murdan’s lab
University of Leeds
- Professor Nicola Stonehouse’s lab
In the process of preparing for accreditation in 2025
Gold:
University College London
- UCL Biochemical Engineering: Professor Martina Micheletti’s lab and Dr Steffi Frank’s lab
Silver:
University of Oxford
- Clinical BioManufacturing Facility: Professor Catherine Green’s lab
University of Leeds
- Professor Nicola Stonehouse’s lab
University of Manchester
- Dr James Winterburn’s lab
Bronze:
University of Oxford
- The Jenner Institute: Dr Sandy Douglas’ lab
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
- Professor Brendan Wren’s lab
