Project:	Sustainability in Scientific Research
Discipline:	Multidisciplinary
Mentor:	Julie Kornfield, Professor of Chemical Engineering, (CCE), jak@cheme.caltech.edu, Phone: 6263954138
Mentor URL:	http://kornfield.caltech.edu/  (opens in new window)
AO Contact:	Dennis Ko, ko@caltech.edu
Background:	Scientific research plays a crucial role in solving global challenges, but it also contributes to significant environmental impacts. Laboratories consume 3-10 times more energy per square foot than office spaces and generate vast amounts of plastic waste, hazardous materials, and greenhouse gas emissions. Many lab materials, including single-use plastics and chemical reagents, have a substantial carbon footprint due to their energy-intensive production and disposal processes. Efforts to make scientific research more sustainable are gaining momentum worldwide, with institutions adopting best practices such as closed-loop recycling, energy-efficient equipment, and sustainable procurement policies. Universities are also embracing life cycle analysis, circular economy models, and behavioral interventions to drive lab sustainability. Through this summer project, students will contribute to the growing movement for sustainable research practices, helping to identify and implement solutions that reduce environmental harm without compromising scientific integrity. This experience will provide valuable skills in data analysis, program implementation, sustainability assessment, and science communication, preparing students for careers in environmentally responsible research and policy-making.
Description:	This summer project provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to engage in hands-on sustainability initiatives within scientific research settings. Laboratories are among the most resource-intensive spaces on university campuses, consuming large amounts of energy, producing significant waste, and relying on single-use plastics. This project will explore practical solutions to make scientific research more sustainable by addressing energy consumption, waste management, and environmental impact. Students will work on one or more of the following focus areas: Lab Energy Efficiency – Implement and assess energy metering programs, identify energy-intensive lab equipment, and explore ways to reduce plug loads and standby power consumption. Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) – Conduct LCA of lab materials (e.g., gloves, Styrofoam, plastics) to evaluate their environmental footprint and identify sustainable alternatives. Waste Reduction & Recycling – Develop programs for pipette tip washing, lab plastics recycling, autoclave-sharing, and Styrofoam recycling. Green Chemistry – Research and promote chemical processes that reduce hazardous waste and energy use. Sustainable Events & Food Systems – Work on projects such as composting initiatives, carbon footprint analysis of dining menu items, and collaborations with campus sustainability groups. Environmental Outreach & Engagement – Develop educational tools (e.g., fact sheets, slide decks, stickers) to promote sustainable lab practices and environmental awareness. Environmental Justice & Carbon Reduction – Investigate the role of environmental justice in lab sustainability, carbon capture technologies, and the impact of food waste. The project will be student-led with mentorship from sustainability experts and lab professionals. Participants will have the opportunity to present their findings and propose actionable recommendations to improve sustainability in campus research environments.
References:	https://greenlabs.caltech.edu/resources/internship-surf-or-other-opportunities
Student Requirements:	Some projects require some programming/engineering skills.
Programs:	This AO can be done under the following programs:   Program    Available To        SURF    Caltech students only  Click on a program name for program info and application requirements.