Laboratories are one of the most resource-intensive spaces for any organization, consuming three to five times the energy of an equivalent-sized office, with more specialized lab facilities exceeding that amount.1 Although this is unsurprising given the range of equipment required in a typical laboratory, along with the corresponding heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation required, the impact on the environment cannot be ignored.2
Recent research has found that laboratory workers are overwhelmingly in favor of making changes toward going green, with 90% of those questioned agreeing or strongly agreeing that sustainability is important in their day-to-day work.3 Given the complexities of a laboratory environment, making any changes can seem daunting, but even small adjustments to increase efficiency can result in significant environmental and cost benefits.4
While each laboratory has its own considerations for implementing sustainable practices, there are several clear opportunities to reduce impact through energy efficiency, waste management, and water efficiency. Here we look at 9 ways labs can be more sustainable: