THE INSTITUTE ANNUAL REPORT 2025
SUSTAINABILITY
The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (The Institute) continues to deepen its commitment to sustainable practices across research operations. From cutting energy consumption to expanding recycling programs and fostering environmental awareness, our community is taking tangible steps to reduce its ecological footprint—and our latest initiatives exemplify these efforts.
Sustainability champions: The Institute’s labs shine in 2024 International Freezer Challenge
The International Laboratory Freezer Challenge is a global competition that encourages labs to improve energy efficiency in cold storage management, helping to reduce energy use and carbon emissions. In 2024, the competition saw record-breaking results, with participants worldwide saving 31.8 million kWh of electricity—reducing carbon emissions by 22,000 metric tons, a 50% improvement from the previous year.
These labs collectively saved enough electricity to power 18 homes for an entire year, reducing annual energy costs by $14,000 across 429 freezers. At McGill University, the challenge’s local competition grew significantly, with 86 lab entries in 2024, up from just 14 the previous year.
Sustainability efforts at The Institute continue to drive strong performance and impressive results in the International Freezer Challenge. With 66 research labs actively participating in this year’s group competition and a significant win in the individual lab category, our community’s commitment to sustainability is clearly underscored.
Celebrating Earth Day: Renewing our commitment to sustainability at The Institute
On Earth Day 2025, The Institute community came together for a celebration that blended education, community spirit and a shared pledge to care for the environment. Hosted in the Atrium of the Glen site by The Institute's Sustainability Team, the afternoon welcomed staff, researchers and visitors for a dynamic mix of themed booths, games, and meaningful conversations about the collective role we play in protecting our planet.
Eight interactive booths highlighted a range of environmental topics relevant to research—from energy-efficiency to waste-reduction strategies—inviting participants to explore practical, everyday solutions. A lively treasure hunt led attendees through the exhibits in search of clues, with eco-friendly prizes awaiting those who completed the challenge.
The Institute’s Sustainability Team celebrates our Green Champions
On February 11, 2025, The Institute’s Sustainability Team, together with Executive Director and Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Rhian Touyz, hosted a special event to honour our Green Champions. These individuals and teams have gone above and beyond in advancing sustainable practices across the Institute—from promoting effective recycling to excelling in the International Freezer Challenge.
Ambassadors from the Recycling Program, lab members nominated for their leadership in energy-saving initiatives, program managers, assistants, and members of the Biomedical Engineering and Facilities teams were all recognized for their dedication. Their collective efforts have set a powerful example for our community. The event also showcased our achievements in numbers and even featured eco-friendly seed-paper certificates, symbolizing growth toward a greener future.
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