Dunn School's dedication to sustainable laboratory practices shines brilliantly in individual labs, each carving their eco-journey. The Raff Lab, steered by the visionary Professor Jordan Raff and green advocate Lab Manager Saroj Saurya, emerges as a sustainability exemplar within the Dunn School framework.

In October 2019, Professor Raff championed Saroj's green vision, pioneering waste reduction in labs. This alliance burgeoned when Saroj integrated with the Green Group in January 2020, catalyzing initiatives that encompass:

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Eco-Friendly Practices: The lab champions glove recycling, the transition to glass pipettes, and leverages 100% recycled printer paper.

Temperature Optimisation: A noteworthy effort includes adjusting ULT freezer temperatures to -70°C for energy efficiency.

The Raff Lab's efforts resonate as a sustainability benchmark, not just within the Dunn School, but as a transformative force in laboratory eco-practices globally.

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Innovative Sustainability Steps in Raff Lab:

Reagent Reuse: The Raff Lab employs an established protocol for meticulously cleaning and reusing Drosophila embryo collection plates multiple times, effectively reducing waste and curbing the demand for new resources.

DNA Column Regeneration: Adhering to the Siddappa et al 2007 methodology, the Raff Lab regenerates and reuses DNA prep columns, minimising laboratory waste.

Self-Sustained Consumables Production: The lab produces its own DH5a competent cells, eliminating the need for shipping and excessive packaging from external suppliers, thus minimising their carbon footprint.

Organized Lab Spaces: Periodic clear-outs ensure optimal space and resource usage.

Afforestation Drive: Raff Lab extends its commitment to tree planting, fortifying biodiversity and offsetting carbon.

Eco-Conscious Dining: The lab's dietary advice centers on reducing carbon-intensive foods like meat and dairy.

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At the heart of Dunn School's sustainability ethos, labs like Raff Lab showcase how custom-tailored lab solutions amplify the overarching goal of a sustainable research environment. With such dedicated efforts, the Dunn School is setting a golden standard for eco-conscious research spaces.