Rochester Business Journal

Rochester Institute of Technology will collaborate with Staples to create a new lab to conduct research on design and manufacturing, RIT officials said Tuesday.

The Sustainable Innovation Lab at the Golisano Institute for Sustainability will focus on the manufacturing of green office products and services, said Nabil Nasr, director of the Golisano Institute for Sustainability.

“Research done in this unique laboratory will result in improved tools, technologies and expertise in the sustainable production of office products worldwide,” Nasr said. “Staples is committed to making a positive impact on the environment by offering more sustainable products and services and advancing eco-smart business solutions for the 21st century. Their leadership in this area is well known, and we are very proud to collaborate with them.”

The lab will also be a research hub to advance the development of sustainable office products that Staples offers its customers worldwide, RIT officials said. It will support Staples’ work with suppliers to find innovative solutions for product design, manufacturing and packaging that reduce environmental impacts, officials added

In addition, the lab will be a venue for training sessions for Staples Advantage customers.

“The Staples Sustainable Innovation Laboratory is an important initiative that builds on our longstanding relationship with RIT and our deep commitment to sustainability in our products and supply chain,” said Mark Buckley, vice president of environmental affairs for Staples. “We’re excited to support the lab and its research to help shape the future of sustainable office products.”

Staples joins Thomas Golisano, Xerox Corp., Caterpillar and Eastman Kodak Co. as a founding member of GIS. Rochester Midland also is an affiliate member of the institute.

Formed in 2007, GIS houses one of the world’s first Ph.D. programs in sustainability as well as master’s degrees in sustainable systems and sustainable architecture, RIT officials noted.

The institute conducts research in nanotechnology, alternative energy development and sustainable design, and also houses the New York State Pollution Prevention Institute.

“RIT is committed to advancing sustainable practices through research and education initiatives such as this new relationship with Staples,” said William Destler, RIT president. “We are thrilled that leaders in the business community are committed to investing in the same goals and vision.”

The new building is designed to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council, RIT officials said. The campus already has one LEED Platinum and one LEED Gold facility.

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