reading the ACT Label
A score of 1 = the lowest environmental impact. For consumables and chemicals, a score of 10 = the highest environmental impact. For equipment, sometimes energy and water consumption values exceed a score of 10. In these instances, the scoring follows the same principle - the higher the number, the higher the environmental impact.
The ACT label is most effective when comparing between products. Products with lower scores (in a specific category, or in total) have a lower environmental impact.
If a comparison is not possible, read below the label to find out more information about why a product received the score that it did.
And remember, the very fact that a company is willing to disclose the environmental impact of their products is a HUGE first step.
The ACT label is most effective when comparing between products. Products with lower scores (in a specific category, or in total) have a lower environmental impact.
If a comparison is not possible, read below the label to find out more information about why a product received the score that it did.
And remember, the very fact that a company is willing to disclose the environmental impact of their products is a HUGE first step.
anatomy of the label
a closer look
TL;DR: watch the video
explanation of the label categories
manufacturing
Manufacturing practices and supply chain management can have a significant influence on a product's environmental impact. ACT includes audits of the impact of manufacturing, an understanding of chemical management within the product and throughout the manufacturing process, the impact of shipping products, and an analysis of the raw materials and the sustainable material content of the product and its packaging.
USER IMPACT
Life science equipment often consumes energy and/or water when being used in the lab. ACT captures this usage information and displays it clearly, making it easy to make choices about equipment based on energy- and water-efficiency.
All laboratory products have a recommended shelf life. ACT evaluates the longevity of life science products as it relates to sustainability.
All laboratory products have a recommended shelf life. ACT evaluates the longevity of life science products as it relates to sustainability.
END OF LIFE
The end of life of laboratory products does not have to be the landfill. This aspect of ACT captures opportunities for recycling, composting, and take-back programs for both the product and its packaging.
vocabulary
definitions
The ACT label references many industry terms. The terms associated with the label have been defined to ensure that all users understand the implications of the results.