PublishingPageContent2Efficiency and Stewardship in NIH LaboratoriesPracticing stewardship in labs can improve operational and energy efficiency, reduce overall costs, lengthen equipment life, and reduce chances of hazardous incidents. The NEMS provides several programs and opportunities for labs to get active in stewardship initiatives. Below are 5 important resources for labs interested in environmental stewardship: Linked ResourceDescriptionAvailabilityTargetHostChemical Waste RecyclingThis program reuses select expired chemicals, used oil, and other lab materials. Its benefits are threefold: it reduces chemical waste, reduces surplus chemicals, and provides free chemicals to labs in need.All YearCost ReductionInventory ManagementWaste ReductionWaste and Resource Recovery BranchSustainable Lab Practices Working GroupThis monthly meeting series increases awareness on environmental regulations and compliance, as well as offering an open-dialogue, liaison experience between the Division of Environmental Protection and IC research teams.All YearInformation SharingOperational EfficiencyWaste and Resource Recovery BranchGreen Labs ProgramThis assessment tool assists labs by increasing their awareness of the stewardship programs and opportunities available at the NIH. It also serves as edification for best management practices.September - DecemberCost ReductionEnergy EfficiencyOperational EfficiencyWaste ReductionWaste and Resource Recovery BranchGreen Labs FairThis event exposes labs to a myriad of environmentally preferable vendors to help with procurement needs. From equipment to services, the Green Labs Fair promotes companies, NIH teams, and third-party groups that can help improve lab efficiency and stewardship.SeptemberEnergy EfficiencyEquipment LongevityPollution Reduction---NIH Freezer ChallengeThis competition pushes labs to go above and beyond with their cold storage maintenance practices. Initiatives within the challenge improve cold storage unit energy efficiency and lifespan. January - MayCost ReductionEnergy EfficiencyEquipment LongevityInventory ManagementSustainability Branch Please email green@mail.nih.gov if you are interested in joining the NEMS Sustainable Laboratory Practices Working Group. PublishingPageContent3 PublishingPageContent4 PublishingPageContent5 Page Content