The Research Museums Center (RMC) is the first building on the University of Michigan (U-M) campus to have 100% of its spaces complete a Sustainable Workplace Certification.
The RMC is home to four museums: the U-M Herbarium, the U-M Museum of Anthropological Archaeology, the U-M Museum of Paleontology, and the U-M Museum of Zoology. Each museum was evaluated for Sustainable Lab Certification, which includes many qualifying spaces throughout the building. The RMC Administration Area—including offices, cubicles, and auxiliary rooms—was evaluated for Sustainable Office Certification. Special consideration was also given to RMC-wide recycling efforts across all certifications.
In December, the Office of Campus Sustainability hosted an RMC Sustainable Lab and Safety Day, during which most RMC spaces completed the certification process and were able to implement immediate improvements. Museum and office areas earned sustainability ratings ranging from Bronze to Gold, with many spaces close to achieving the next certification level. The event was coordinated by Alexandra Galens (Program Coordinator), Sam Kocurek (Sustainability and Safety Liaison), and Jen Grover (LSA Lab Safety Officer), along with other sustainability and safety personnel.
“This is a major accomplishment and a testament to the collective effort, enthusiasm, and commitment of everyone who works in the building,” said Kocurek. “We truly appreciate the engagement that helped make this milestone possible.”
As part of these efforts, individual deskside waste and recycling bins in offices and cubicles are being removed and replaced with larger, centralized bins. This change helps consolidate waste, reduces the number of plastic liners sent to the landfill, and supports custodial staff by decreasing the total number of bins that need to be serviced. In addition, composting bins are now available in the building for the first time.
“Becoming the first building on campus to complete a Sustainable Workplace Certification is something we are very proud of,” said Kevin Atkins, Facilities, RMC. “These changes help reduce waste, support our custodial teams, and move us closer to a more sustainable campus overall.”
Congratulations to the Research Museums Center, a leader in sustainable workplace practices!
