How Labs Can Lead the Way in Sustainability

Environmental Impact of Laboratories

Laboratories are essential for scientific and medical progress but historically contribute significantly to environmental degradation. Their impact stems from high energy consumption, use of hazardous chemicals, and extensive plastic waste generation.

Sustainable Innovations in Lab Equipment

• Energy Efficient Devices: New ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers consume less energy due to advanced insulation and sustainable refrigerants with lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), replacing older, less eco-friendly chemicals.
• Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs): Upgraded BSCs now use energy-efficient DC motors and optimized airflow designs to reduce power use while maintaining safety from hazardous materials.
• Centrifuges and Incubators: Lighter centrifuge rotors enable faster operation and energy savings; modern refrigerated incubators deliver savings through more efficient compressors and reduced heat output, lowering HVAC demands.
• Certifications: Labs aiming for sustainability should prioritize equipment with ENERGY STAR and My Green Lab ACT certifications, verifying reduced environmental footprints without compromising quality.

Collaborating with Suppliers for Sustainability

• Labs are encouraged to partner with suppliers committed to sustainable goals.
• Strategies include sourcing local materials to reduce transport emissions, shifting manufacturing to lower emissions and waste, and offering extended product warranties to promote longevity.
• Packaging innovations emphasize recyclable, biodegradable, and reusable materials with clear recycling guidelines.
• Logistics optimization through consolidated shipping and regional distribution cuts carbon footprints further.

Preparing for Future Regulatory Changes

• Regulatory bodies such as the US EPA and European Union are advancing policies to reduce fluorinated greenhouse gases, extensively used in lab equipment refrigerants.
• Forward-looking suppliers are eliminating harmful fluorinated gases ahead of regulatory mandates.
• Labs are advised to invest in equipment exceeding current standards to future-proof compliance and align with evolving sustainability laws.

Integrating Sustainability into Lab Operations

Achieving sustainable labs requires a holistic approach combining renewable energy adoption, zero-waste initiatives, recycling innovation, optimized supply chains, and ongoing staff education.

Conclusion

By embracing sustainable equipment innovations, fostering supplier collaboration, and aligning with future regulatory developments, laboratories can drastically diminish their environmental impact. This integrated approach will help shape a greener and more sustainable future for scientific research worldwide.

Authored by Noreen Hong, Vice President and General Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific, specializing in growth, protection, and separation solutions with over 20 years of industry leadership.

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