CERI Earns My Green Lab Certification
The Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University has achieved green-level certification from My Green Lab, a globally recognised standard for environmentally sustainable laboratories. This certification acknowledges CERI’s ongoing commitment to integrating sustainability into its scientific operations, from energy and water efficiency to waste reduction and responsible procurement.
This achievement comes at a time when global attention to climate change is intensifying. It demonstrates that scientific progress can advance hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility, as research institutions take active steps to reduce their carbon footprint and embed sustainable practices.
“Achieving My Green Lab certification is a proud milestone for CERI. It reflects our commitment to conducting world-class research while minimising our environmental footprint,” said Prof Tulio de Oliveira, Director of CERI.
The certification recognises CERI’s implementation of sustainable practices across its laboratories.
Key initiatives include:
•Optimising energy usage through equipment management and energy-efficient infrastructure.
•Reducing water consumption with water-saving devices and revised laboratory protocols.
•Minimising waste by recycling and repurposing materials wherever possible.
•Implementing green procurement strategies aligned with the My Green Lab ACT Ecolabel.
“This certification is a testament to the culture of sustainability we are building within CERI. Every team member’s engagement makes a tangible difference,” said Dr Lavanya Singh, Head of Laboratory.
The certification journey was led by CERI’s lab technicians Yusasha Pillay and Velda Wentzel, who led practical interventions and championed sustainability across research teams. Their efforts have translated
into measurable improvements in operational efficiency and environmental impact.
“This certification proves that when we hold ourselves accountable, we can reduce our footprint without compromising the quality or integrity of our science,” said Wentzel. From switching off unused equipment to introducing smarter waste management, The lab team’s day-to-day practices have changed in ways that matter both for science and the planet. “Engaging the broader lab team in these initiatives has shown that even small, consistent actions can collectively make a big impact,” she added.
CERI’s sustainability achievements resonate strongly with the objectives of COP30, underscoring the role research institutions can play in addressing climate change. By reducing resource consumption and embedding sustainable practices into research workflows, CERI contributes to global environmental stewardship while continuing its critical work in epidemic research.
“Our work is not only about advancing science, it’s also about ensuring that research itself is conducted responsibly and sustainably. These efforts align closely with global climate initiatives like COP30,” said de Oliveira.
Building on this milestone, CERI plans to expand its sustainability initiatives further. The greenlevel certification by My Green Lab highlights that scientific excellence and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. By embedding sustainable practices at the core of its operations, CERI sets a precedent for responsible science that supports both the advancement of knowledge and the protection of our planet.
This news piece was published at the gem!
Click on the image above to read the gem, genomics, epidemics & microbes Vol 8 Issue 10, Nov/Dec 2025, or scan the qrcode.
News date: 2025-12-01
Links:
https://issuu.com/the.gem/docs/the_gem_-_genomics_epidemics_microbes_nov_dec_2025/22?fr=xKAE9_zU1NQ
