James Markert, M.D., MPH, UAB Department of Neurosurgery Professor and James Garber Galbraith Endowed Chair of Neurosurgery, has earned the Silver My Green Lab Certification for his research lab.

My Green Lab is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable practices and reducing the environmental impact in laboratory settings. Their certification program assesses labs on a variety of criteria, including energy and water use, waste management and chemical use. 

Markert's lab received a score of 61% on the certification assessment, which qualified them for the Silver level of certification. The lab was commended for their efforts to reduce energy consumption by implementing energy-efficient equipment and lighting practices, as well as their waste reduction and recycling efforts. The lab also scored well for proper chemical management and their commitment to reducing water usage.

Many labs face significant barriers when implementing more sustainable practices. However, Markert and his lab members were able to overcome these obstacles through a combination of innovation and collaboration. 

The Silver My Green Lab Certification is a testament to Market’s lab’s commitment to not only advancing neurosurgical research, but doing so in an environmentally conscious and responsible manner.