The Labs21 approach is dedicated to the pursuit of sustainable, high performance and low energy laboratories that minimize the overall environmental impacts of a laboratory; protect laboratory occupants safety; optimize whole building efficiency on a life-cycle basis; and, establish goals, track performance, and share results for continuous improvement.

In the design of CMU project some the Labs21 concepts that were addressed were appropriate air flows through the design of the mechanical systems; exhaust location over the lab workbenches so that fumes would be quickly evacuated; and placement of fume hoods away from high traffic areas. This project incorporated Labs21 staff safety features including eye washes, drench showers and personal protective equipment as well as ante rooms where necessary. The design also included appropriate seal devices around the doors of the laboratories.