When I sat down with Laura Mitchell, an environmental consultant who played a pivotal role in the transformation of Leeds Drapers Yard, I was eager to unpack the fascinating journey of incorporating sustainability into clinical research operations. Laura’s insights offered a compelling narrative of how Fortrea managed to balance the intricate needs of clinical research with environmental stewardship.
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The Brownfield Advantage
Laura began by explaining the initial decision-making process. “Finding a brownfield site was our starting point,” she shared. “It’s like recycling a building. By repurposing an existing structure, we avoided the environmental costs of constructing something new on a greenfield site. This not only preserved untouched land but also leveraged the existing infrastructure of Leeds.”
The chosen site was a vacant 1950s landmark building. The decision was strategic, aligning with Fortrea’s vision to modernize their Phase I Clinical Research Unit (CRU) without contributing to unnecessary urban sprawl. “The building had good bones,” Laura said with a smile. “We saw the potential to turn it into a sustainable hub for clinical research.”
Sustainable Procurement and Design
As we delved deeper, Laura highlighted the meticulous planning that went into sourcing materials. “We followed a sustainable procurement plan, adhering to ISO standards. Local materials were prioritised, not just for their lower carbon footprint, but also to support the local economy.”
The refurbishment process also involved significant reuse of materials, effectively reducing landfill waste. “Furniture from the old CRU sites was either repurposed or donated to charities like PhysioNet and Waste to Wonder,” Laura explained. “This initiative alone saved over 36,000 kg of carbon emissions. It’s about finding new life for old things.”
The design of the building itself was another area where sustainability took centre stage. “We integrated thoughtful design elements like bat boxes and a rooftop terrace with native plants to support local biodiversity,” Laura noted. “Inside, we focused on health and comfort with features like natural light maximisation, air filtration, and acoustic insulation.”
Energy and Resource Efficiency
Energy efficiency was a cornerstone of the project. “We installed rooftop photovoltaic panels to generate energy, and energy meters to monitor consumption,” Laura revealed. “In terms of water use, we implemented a comprehensive metering and leak detection system, alongside low-water appliances. It’s little changes like these that make a big difference.”
Laura also emphasised the importance of encouraging sustainable commuting. “The CRU is centrally located, making public transport readily accessible,” she said. “We also provided facilities for cyclists and electric vehicle charging stations to promote lower-impact transportation.”
Achieving a BREEAM Certification
One of the standout achievements for Fortrea was securing a ‘Very Good’ BREEAM rating for the Leeds Drapers Yard. “Following BREEAM guidance was crucial,” Laura explained. “It’s a holistic approach, assessing the building’s environmental, social, and economic sustainability. It was a proud moment when we met those rigorous standards.”
Laura elaborated on the BREEAM process. “It’s not just about ticking boxes. It’s a comprehensive evaluation that pushes you to consider every facet of sustainability. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding to see our efforts recognised.”
Continual Improvement and Impact
Since its opening, Leeds Drapers Yard has continued to evolve. Laura highlighted some of the ongoing initiatives. “We’ve reduced clinical waste, cut down on printers, and switched to chemical-free cleaning solutions. These cumulative efforts have led to a reduction of over five tons of carbon emissions annually.”
She concluded with a reflection on the broader impact. “Sustainability isn’t a tick-box exercise; it’s a continuous journey. Every small action contributes to a larger goal. Leeds Drapers Yard stands as a testament to what can be achieved when innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.”
As I wrapped up my conversation with Laura Mitchell, it was clear that the transformation of Leeds Drapers Yard was not just about creating a state-of-the-art CRU, but also about setting a benchmark for sustainable practices in clinical research. Fortrea’s commitment to this vision serves as an inspiring example for industries worldwide, demonstrating that with thoughtful planning and relentless dedication, environmental responsibility can indeed coexist with cutting-edge research.
By Lewis Davis
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