Our sustainability

Our Commitment

As an environmental organisation, we are committed to reducing the negative impact of our research and innovation activities on the natural environment.

Our Track Record (2020-2024)

During this period, we made significant inroads into realising our commitments:

• Since 2022 we have maintained certification to ISO14001 for Environmental Management
• In October 2023 a 134kWp solar carport became operational, complementing 2 solar roof arrays that were previously installed in May 2021. Combined, the solar panels are saving PML approximately 68.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.
• New bicycle compound and shelter built offering over 50 bicycle parking spaces to encourage carbon-free commuting.
• Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers installed with 8 charging bays available for staff and students.
• Since 2021, PML laboratories have been part of the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF). Our labs are currently at the bronze or silver award.
• We moved our banking provision to an ethical bank that doesn’t finance the production or extraction of fossil fuels or other damaging impacts on the environment.
• We further strengthened our investment policy to ensure that we only invest in an environmentally sustainable and ethical / socially conscious manner.
• Native hedgerow and wildflowers planted throughout the PML grounds to enhance the flora and fauna biodiversity.
• LED lighting installed throughout the PML buildings, replacing high consuming fluorescent fittings.
• External accolades: We were the winner of the “Regional Chamber Business Award for Green Innovation” 2024, winner of “The Planet Saver” Award at the Devon & Plymouth Chamber Awards 2024, and winner of “Environmental Success of the Year” at the PlymouthLive Business Awards 2021.

Our Renewed Focus (2025-2030)

We have now signed up to the Concordat for the Environmental Sustainability of Research and Innovation Practice which has the following aims;.

• Leadership and System Change: A commitment to conduct research sustainably across the whole organisation and throughout our collaborations.
• Sustainable Infrastructure: Understanding the impact that our buildings, digital infrastructure and science facilities have on the environment allowing more informed decisions with a focus on using what is already available.
• Sustainable Procurement: Prioritisation of purchasing decisions that minimise environmental impact through adoption of the circular economy approach
• Emissions from Travel: Implementing a ‘Climate Conscious’ approach to travel.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: Sharing knowledge and best practice with our partners to achieve greater impact through collective effort.
• Environmental Impact and Reporting: Transparent and consistent reporting of data and our sustainability outputs.

For more information see our Environmental Policy.

Current Activities

Our current activities are focused on the following:

• Development of a Responsible Procurement Policy (embracing environmental, ethical and economic considerations) and guidance for our employees to make more informed decisions to enable its implementation.
• Identification, prioritisation and implementation of mechanisms to reduce emissions associated with data holdings and IT infrastructure.
• Develop a replacement plan to reduce inefficient science and building infrastructure and replace with low-carbon technologies.
• Better understanding of and reduction in our travel associated carbon footprint.

Solar Carport Initiative

Our solar carport and rooftop arrays are saving approximately 65 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year.

View update

Enhancing Biodiversity

Native planting, bug hotels, composting and wildlife habitats are supporting biodiversity across our grounds.

Sustainable Travel

Our bicycle compound, installed in 2023, encourages low-carbon commuting for staff and students.