Life Sciences Institute

Originally certified in 2017, LSI is recertified as a platinum Sustainable Workplace. The office lights are on motion detection and air handlers have been programmed through Building Automation Services to turn off during evenings, nights, and weekends. The building manages energy with the assistance of a Regional Energy Manager. This manager meets regularly with administrative facilities staff to discuss, evaluate, and program energy savings programs. The team discourages unnecessary printing by encouraging electronic communication, filing, and online collaboration tools. Files are scanned to eliminate paper copies and free up file cabinet space. Electronic filing is encouraged for newer documents. The staff worked with Fisher Scientific to replace old hotplates with EHS-approved Isotemp hotplates and recycled the old plates. Each staff member has been provided with a microwavable bowl and plate as well as a hot/cold tumbler with a lid. Portable video and teleconferencing equipment eliminates much travel to meetings. This has been handy to screen first-round interviews for candidates. Bus ridership is encouraged for cross-campus meetings. Over 50% of the staff are Planet Blue Ambassadors and the green team includes faculty as well as staff.