How Labs Can Lead the Way in Sustainability

Published: 24 December 2025 | Author: Noreen Hong, Thermo Fisher Scientific

Laboratories are essential hubs for scientific innovation but traditionally have a significant environmental footprint, driven by high energy consumption, hazardous chemicals, and plastic waste. With growing global sustainability goals, labs are uniquely positioned to pioneer eco-friendly transformations by adopting targeted strategies and fostering supplier collaborations.

Sustainable Innovations in Laboratory Equipment

• Energy Efficiency & Refrigerants: Labs rely heavily on equipment like ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers, centrifuges, biological safety cabinets (BSCs), and incubators, which are energy intensive. Modern innovations include:

  • Use of refrigerants with lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), reducing environmental harm compared to older chemicals.
  • Energy-efficient ULT freezers with superior insulation, cutting energy usage drastically.
  • BSCs incorporating energy-saving DC motors and optimized airflow while maintaining safety standards.
  • Lighter materials in centrifuge rotors enabling faster cycles and less power consumption.
  • Refrigerated incubators that minimize heat output, lowering HVAC energy demands.

• Certifications to Look For: ENERGY STAR and My Green Lab ACT certifications help labs identify products verified for reduced energy use and environmental impact.

• Waste Reduction: Minimizing single-use plastics (e.g., pipette tips) and water consumption remains critical.

Collaborating with Suppliers for Sustainability

• Aligned Goals: Selecting suppliers committed to transparent sustainability targets builds confidence in sourcing decisions.
• Local Sourcing: Reducing transportation distances cuts carbon emissions and optimizes logistics.
• Product Lifecycle Management: Extended warranties, refurbishment, and recycling programs lengthen product lifespans and minimize waste.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: Transitioning to recyclable, biodegradable, or reusable packaging materials reduces plastic waste significantly.
• Logistics Optimization: Consolidated shipping and regional distribution centers further lower transportation emissions.

Preparing for Regulatory Changes and Future-Proofing Labs

Authorities like the US EPA and EU are tightening regulations on greenhouse gases, including fluorinated refrigerants used in lab equipment. Labs should proactively seek equipment that:

• Meets or exceeds current environmental standards.
• Avoids substances with high environmental impact.
• Prepares for upcoming regulations to avoid costly retrofits or replacements.

A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Laboratories

Sustainability in labs demands integrated efforts encompassing:

• Renewable energy adoption.
• Innovative recycling and zero-waste practices.
• Optimized supply chains.
• Workforce education and culture shifts toward sustainability.

Embedding these elements into daily operations will significantly reduce environmental footprints while maintaining scientific quality and safety.

About the Author

Noreen Hong, Vice President and General Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific, leads growth and innovation in life sciences with over 20 years of experience. She holds an MBA in marketing from Bentley University and a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering from Boston University.

By embracing energy-efficient technologies, engaging responsible suppliers, and preparing for evolving regulations, laboratories can lead the life sciences industry toward a sustainable future. These efforts not only safeguard the environment but also ensure that the critical work of discovery and innovation proceeds responsibly.

Design Delight Studio curates high-impact, authoritative insights into sustainable and organic product trends, helping conscious consumers and innovative brands stay ahead in a fast-evolving green economy.