MRC ES Seminar Series: Sustainable Research Practices: (Innovative) Strategies for Waste Reduction (Online Registration)

Overview

MRC ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY SEMINAR SERIES 

 As part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the Medical Research Council (MRC) is committed to achieving a Net Zero position by 2040 and improving the environmental sustainability of its estate, research, and operations. To support this goal, MRC has initiated a programme to transform its operations and facilities. This effort recognises that scientific progress and environmental sustainability must advance together, and that research operations, while complex, can be aligned with sustainability goals. 

Over recent years, MRC has identified and adopted good practice from higher education, business, government, and wider research sectors. In order to foster broader engagement and commitment within the life science research community, a seminar series has been developed to explore various aspects of environmental sustainability. These seminars provide a platform to share knowledge, learn from other initiatives, and build support networks. 

SEMINAR 6: Sustainable Research Practices: (Innovative) Strategies for Waste Reduction

Outline: 

The MRC Environmental Sustainability Seminar Series aims to align scientific research with environmental sustainability goals.

Seminar 6 of the MRC Environmental Sustainability Seminar Series will take a comprehensive approach to waste reduction in scientific research, extending beyond conventional waste management strategies such as segregation, classification, and responsible disposal. While these remain essential, the seminar will also explore proactive solutions to prevent waste generation at its source, including sustainable procurement, supply chain innovations, and circular economy principles. By addressing the full lifecycle of research materials—from sourcing and usage to disposal and repurposing—we aim to identify practical, scalable strategies that minimise environmental impact. Additionally, the session will showcase emerging research, case studies, and best practices that demonstrate how laboratories and research facilities can integrate sustainability into their operations, ultimately fostering a more responsible and resource-efficient research ecosystem.

AGENDA: (TBC)

Who Should Attend:

• Colleagues and stakeholders in the medical science and research communities.
• Anyone interested in integrating environmental sustainability into their research or healthcare practices.

Date: 1st July 2025
Location: University of Edinburgh, Michael Swann Building, Max Born Crescent, The King’s Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3BF, Room 7.20 (Hybrid Event). Link will be provided in due course

Start and finish time of the event: 10:00am - 3:30pm

If you have any questions, please contact sustainableresearch@mrc.ukri.org