Green Labs Program: The 2022 International Freezer Challenge

Beginning in January 2022, research labs on all WashU campuses are encouraged to assess their cold storage needs, perform regular maintenance, and retire old appliances by participating in the 2022 International Freezer Challenge.

Research labs rely on a wide range of appliances and electronics to complete their research and function on a daily basis. Chances are, labs have at least one -20 freezer, -80 freezer, or even a -150C freezer, if not several of each. These appliances, while vital to research, use significant amounts of energy that lead to greenhouse gas emission. Reducing these emissions by selecting high-efficiency (or Energy STAR) appliances when purchasing is a great first step, but proper maintenance plays a critical role in reducing emissions over the lifespan of the unit – whether high-efficiency or standard efficiency.  

When freezers and refrigeration units are not managed or maintained properly, these emissions increase from the machine struggling to maintain internal temperatures and running more than necessary. Add in the risks of refrigerant leaks, and these mishaps become a serious risk to our environment.  More>>
Applications for Active Commuter Hub Spring membership are now open. More>>
Explore WashU Rides
Students: looking to drive or catch a ride home for break? Check out WashU Rides' Rideboard! WashU Rides is the University's new commuter platform that facilitates a smart commute for anyone in the WashU community. More>>
Ever Green Challenge Winner
Congratulations to first-year student, Sophie Newman, for winning the final raffle in the Ever Green challenge. Sophie logged plant-based meals in her Ever Green passport throughout all four weeks of the dining challenge. 
Ameren LED Discount Expiring
Ameren Missouri provides an instant discount on the purchase of qualifying ENERGY STAR certified LED bulbs at participating retailers. Take advantage of this program before it expiress at the end of the year. More>>
 
Dining Services News
The latest Dining Services newsletter offers a host of exciting news and upcoming events. Be sure to sign up for Nutrition E-news, a newsletter curated by the WashU Nutrition & Dietary Wellness team. More>>
Holiday Lights Recycling
Now through Jan. 31
Don't know what to do with old or unworkable holiday lights? Don't trash them! Bring them to campus for recycling. Currently available on the Medical Campus and Danforth East End. Check back for more locations. More>>
Power of Arts & Sciences Week
Ends Dec. 10
Join in for the last two days of Power of Arts & Sciences Week. Dean Feng Sheng Hu invites all to join students, faculty, and alumni for a series of virtual events inspired by the Arts & Sciences strategic plan. More>>
WashU Reuse Demo
Dec. 13, 12 pm
Thinking about getting new office furniture? Clearing out some old but usable items? WashU has a tool that facilitates this by connecting your items with WashU community members. Grab your lunch and tune in. More>>
Perennial Clothing Swap
Dec. 12, 1-4 pm
There are a few tickets left for Perennial's upcoming community clothing swap. The swap is a great way to refresh your wardrobe in a sustainable way. Bring good condition clothes and go home with new-to-you items! More>>
 
Forest Park Book Submissions
Support a WashU student-run book about the ecology, history and cultural impact of Forest Park. Students are seeking various category submissions. Prizes will be awarded! More>>
UCollege Sustainability Course
Students will learn about opportunities for creating stakeholder value by embracing sustainable business practices as well as how to validate vital concepts in sustainability. More>>
 
Climate Asset Mapping Project
Second Nature is seeking two undergraduate research associates to contribute to the development of an exciting new mobile app intended to accelerate climate action. More>> 
 
Graham Chapel Open for Reflection
The Office for Religious, Spiritual & Ethical Life is providing space for university members to take a moment to pray, meditate, or reflect. The chapel is open Monday - Friday, 9 am - 4 pm.
Plant Trees at Desoto Park
Great Rivers Greenway is looking for more volunteers to plant trees at Desoto Park on Friday, December 10th from 1 to 3 pm. No prior experience required. More>>
Soft Plastic Recycling on Campus
Bring your clean and dry plastic bags, deflated air pockets, and other eligible plastics to Hitzeman or the Village Mailroom. For questions, contact [email protected]. 
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The Office of Sustainability newsletter is intended as a clearinghouse of sustainability-related news and events at the university, in the region and around the world. Listings in the newsletter do not necessarily represent Office of Sustainability endorsements or views. To submit an event or news item to include in the newsletter, email [email protected].

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