UBCO Green Labs: Lab Plastics Recycling Success
The Green Labs program at UBC Okanagan is demonstrating measurable success in reducing laboratory plastic waste, with significant growth across its recycling streams. Operated by the Sustainability Office with support by Health, Safety & Environment, the program has been active on campus for over 16 years and continues to scale its impact through targeted initiatives such as pipette tip and box recycling and personal protective equipment (PPE) diversion.
Recent data highlights substantial progress. PPE recycling has seen the most dramatic increase, growing from approximately 34 kg in 2022/23 to nearly 160 kg in 2025/26, an increase of over 350 percent. Similarly, pipette tip and tube recycling has expanded from its pilot phase to over 50 kg of material diverted annually, while pipette tip box recycling has remained consistently strong, increasing from about 50 kg to nearly 60 kg. Together, these efforts have contributed to a sharp rise in avoided emissions, with associated greenhouse gas reductions increasing from under 10 kgCO2e in early years to approximately 170 kgCO2e in 2025/26.
This progress highlights the strength of closed-loop recycling systems, where collected lab materials are remanufactured into new products, supporting a circular approach to plastics in research environments. With growing participation from researchers and continued program expansion, Green Labs is directly supporting UBC Okanagan’s Climate Action Plan 2030, which targets a 50 percent reduction in per capita waste. By scaling innovative recycling streams and embedding sustainable practices in research spaces, the program is helping make real progress toward reducing waste and emissions on campus.