Alpha Laboratories – Tree Planting Scheme

Best sustainability initiative
– the GreenLab Award

The LaboraTree tree planting scheme, initiated by Alpha Laboratories in 2009, represents a commendable effort in corporate environmental responsibility. This initiative demonstrates a tangible commitment to reducing the environmental impact of laboratory plastic waste. 

Key Effects of the LaboraTree Scheme:

Carbon Dioxide Absorption
Trees are vital in absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide, a primary contributor to climate change. The LaboraTree scheme directly addresses this issue by increasing the number of trees planted, thereby enhancing carbon sequestration. This action plays a crucial role in reducing the company's and its customer's carbon footprint.

Biodiversity Enhancement
The scheme focuses on planting native, broadleaved tree varieties, such as oak, ash, and birch, which provide essential habitats for diverse wildlife. By contributing to the creation and expansion of woodlands, LaboraTree supports biodiversity conservation, fostering healthier ecosystems.

Woodland Expansion and Preservation
Through partnerships with organisations like eForests, Alpha Laboratories ensures that trees are planted in carefully selected locations across the UK. This contributes to the expansion and preservation of valuable woodland areas, providing long-term environmental benefits.

Increased Environmental Awareness
The LaboraTree scheme raises awareness among laboratory professionals about the environmental impact of their work. By incentivising sustainable practices through the collection of tokens for tree planting, the scheme encourages a culture of environmental responsibility within the scientific community.

Sustainable Product Use Promotion
The LaboraTree scheme is tied to the use of Fastrak® pipette tip refills and FastZAP™ Premier filter tips. These products are produced in an eco-efficient facility, that uses renewable resources, and minimal and recyclable packaging. Therefore the scheme promotes the use of more sustainable laboratory consumables.

Community and Recreational Benefits
Woodlands provide spaces for recreation and relaxation, contributing to the well-being of communities. The LaboraTree scheme enhances access to these natural spaces, promoting public health and enjoyment.

Why LaboraTree is a Success Story:

Tangible Environmental Impact
The LaboraTree scheme delivers measurable environmental benefits through increased tree planting and carbon sequestration. This tangible impact sets it apart from less concrete sustainability initiatives.

Integration with Business Practices
The scheme is seamlessly integrated with Alpha Laboratories' business practices, incentivising customers to participate in environmental stewardship through their product purchases. This demonstrates a genuine commitment to sustainability, rather than a mere marketing ploy.

Partnership and Collaboration
Alpha Laboratories' collaboration with reputable organisations like eForests underscores the scheme's credibility and effectiveness. These partnerships ensure that trees are planted and maintained to maximise their environmental impact.

Long-Term Sustainability
By focusing on native tree species and woodland preservation, the LaboraTree scheme contributes to long-term environmental sustainability. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the benefits of the scheme will endure for future generations.

Promotion of Sustainable Laboratory Practices
In the scientific community there is a growing need for sustainable practices. The LaboraTree scheme is a great example of a company taking action to help promote those practices.

Innovation
The method of connecting the purchase of laboratory consumables to the planting of trees is an innovative way to promote sustainability.

In conclusion, the LaboraTree tree planting scheme is a commendable initiative that demonstrates Alpha Laboratories' commitment to environmental responsibility. Its tangible environmental benefits, integration with business practices, and focus on long-term sustainability make it a worthy recipient of this award for excellence.