The MEDyC research unit (Extracellular Matrix and Cell Dynamics) at the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne has taken a significant step in its environmental commitment by collaborating with the research group (GDR) Labos 1point5. This academic collective brings together researchers from various disciplines and regions with a shared goal of better understanding and reducing the impact of scientific activities on the environment, particularly regarding climate change. This partnership marks a major advance in MEDyC’s efforts to integrate more sustainable practices into its research and to raise awareness about the climate crisis.

For the MEDyC research unit, climate change is not merely a scientific issue but a societal obligation that must be addressed in both professional and personal spheres. Achieving this requires tools for raising awareness and measuring greenhouse gas emissions, which are essential for evaluating and reducing ecological footprints.

Tools for Awareness and Emission Reduction

To raise awareness and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the MEDyC research unit has access to various tools provided by the GDR Labos 1point5. Among these is a carbon footprint calculator, crucial for assessing and decreasing the environmental impact of research activities.

Another tool utilized by MEDyC is the role-playing game "My Earth in 180 Minutes." This immersive game aims to engage participants with the challenges of climate change in a fun and interactive way. By taking on different roles, participants can explore the impacts of laboratory activities on the climate and consider possible actions to mitigate these effects.

Calculating greenhouse gas balances is a complex and time-consuming task, yet essential for any organization looking to reduce its environmental impact. The MEDyC unit is committed to using the calculation tools from GDR Labos 1point5 to evaluate its emissions and implement effective reduction strategies. This process requires deep reflection on current practices and potential improvements.

A Major Step Toward Responsible Research

The partnership between the MEDyC unit and GDR Labos 1point5 reflects a growing commitment within the research community and URCA to address climate imperatives. This collaboration aligns perfectly with the Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility (DDRS) initiative of the university, which emphasizes the importance of balancing academic excellence with environmental engagement. By adopting awareness and measurement tools, the MEDyC unit demonstrates its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and raising awareness among the scientific community about the challenges of climate change. This initiative serves as a model for other laboratories and academic institutions, showing that it is possible to combine scientific excellence with environmental responsibility.

This is just the beginning of this collaboration, and we will keep you updated on what comes next!