Cancer Research UK: Environmental Sustainability in Research Policy

What is this about?

Cancer Research UK’s Environmental Sustainability in Research Policy sets out requirements and expectations for reducing the environmental impact of cancer research. It recognises that research and innovation can consume significant amounts of energy, water, materials and equipment, and therefore aims to make research greener and more efficient.

The policy asks researchers and host institutions to consider sustainability throughout the research process. Key actions include reducing energy and water consumption, sharing and reusing equipment and materials, reducing single-use plastics, recycling waste, and limiting unnecessary travel. Researchers are also encouraged to consider environmental sustainability when choosing equipment, consumables, computing resources and other project costs.

From 1 January 2026, relevant lead and joint-lead applicants to Cancer Research UK response-mode funding must demonstrate laboratory sustainability certification, such as LEAF or My Green Lab Silver, with some exemptions. UK host institutions must also be signatories to the Environmental Sustainability Concordat.

Why is this important?

This policy is important because research itself has an environmental footprint. Laboratories can consume large amounts of energy and water, while research activities generate waste and require equipment, consumables and travel. Cancer Research UK therefore aims to reduce these impacts while maintaining high-quality research. The policy also makes sustainability part of research funding decisions. Researchers are encouraged to consider the environmental impact and long-term value of purchases rather than focusing only on the initial cost. This can encourage the use of refurbished equipment, sustainable materials, efficient computing and lower-emission travel. It also creates clearer expectations for research institutions and helps make sustainable research practices more systematic.

For whom is this important?

ResearchersHealth / Clinical ResearcherResearch Funding Organization

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