The Biomedical Laboratories at the Main Campus in Horsforth have achieved the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF) Bronze award, a recognised sector-wide standard that helps laboratories reduce their environmental impact while improving operational efficiency. 

Leeds Trinity’s Biomedical Technicians and Estates and Facilities team have collaborated throughout 2025 to introduce new sustainability measures in the laboratories, helping the University reduce energy and water usage, improve waste management and recycling processes, encourage sustainable procurement, and increase awareness of laboratory sustainability among staff and students. 

Katie Clegg, Director of Sustainability at Leeds Trinity University, said: “This achievement reflects the dedication and proactive efforts of our staff to embed sustainability into everyday research and teaching. We are already exploring how we can achieve the LEAF Silver award, including collaborating with other Higher Education institutions to learn more about best practice. We will also explore how the same sustainable principles can be applied across our other laboratory-type spaces to further improve our environmental performance.” 

LEAF accreditation not only supports Leeds Trinity’s pledge to the Concordat for the Environmental Sustainability of Research and Innovation Practice, which was signed earlier this year, but also enhances the institution’s ability to apply for funding from leading research bodies. 

Meanwhile, Leeds Trinity’s City Campus in Trevelyan Square has officially received BREEAM Excellent certification following a post-construction review, cementing the grading attained at the design stage. 

BREEAM is the world-leading sustainability assessment method for the built environment and infrastructure, helping construction projects meet sustainability goals and improve performance. The rating reflects the City Campus’s minimal environmental impact and use of innovative sustainable solutions to operate. 

1 Trevelyan Square was constructed using ethical practices and responsibly sourced building materials and is an all-electric and energy-efficient campus powered through renewable sources and heat pump systems. It also features building management systems to manage, monitor and reduce energy consumption.  

Such sustainability initiatives contributed to the building’s nomination for the 'Refurbishment of the Year' prize at the Education Estates Awards 2025. 

For more information about Sustainability at Leeds Trinity, visit the University website.