How Green Is Your Laboratory?

Why Laboratory Sustainability Matters More Than Ever

Laboratories consume significantly more energy than standard office buildings. From ventilation systems to ultra-low temperature freezers, lab operations have a real environmental and financial footprint. Improving sustainability isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about operating more efficiently without compromising research quality.

Reduce Single-Use Plastics in the Laboratory

How to Recycle Disposable Lab Plastics Safely

Single-use plastics are common in nearly every lab. While not all plastics can be recycled due to contamination or chemical exposure, many can be handled through specialized waste streams. Work with your disposal provider to identify what materials qualify and which require alternative handling.

Manufacturer Take-Back and Reuse Programs

Some lab suppliers offer take-back or repurposing programs for plastics and consumables. Universities and research facilities may also have internal reuse systems that help reduce landfill waste and procurement costs.

Replace Plastic with Glassware Where Appropriate

Benefits of Glassware for Long-Term Sustainability

Glassware often lasts longer, maintains accuracy better, and generates less waste over time than disposable plastic alternatives. For non-sterile applications, switching back to glass can reduce recurring costs and improve consistency.

Improve Fume Hood Energy Efficiency by Closing the Sash

Why Open Fume Hood Sashes Waste Energy

When a fume hood sash is left open, it continuously pulls conditioned air from the lab. This forces HVAC systems to work harder and increases energy use.

Simple Habits That Reduce Fume Hood Energy Use

Closing the sash when the hood is not in active use can reduce fume hood energy consumption by up to 30%. Visual reminders and staff training help reinforce this habit.

Power Down Laboratory Equipment When Not in Use

Reduce Phantom Energy Consumption in Labs

Many devices draw power even when idle. Turning off equipment, unplugging unused devices, and using power strips can significantly reduce unnecessary energy use.

Equipment Shutdown Best Practices

Not all lab equipment can be powered down, but identifying what can be safely shut off helps extend equipment lifespan and lower utility costs.

Choose Sustainable Laboratory Suppliers and Materials

What to Look for in Sustainable Lab Products

Sustainable sourcing includes evaluating material durability, packaging waste, disposal requirements, and lifecycle impact, not just upfront cost.

Bioplastics and Environmentally Conscious Manufacturing

Some manufacturers offer products designed to break down more easily or reduce environmental impact during production.

Replace Hazardous Chemicals with Safer Alternatives

Reduce Toxic Waste Without Compromising Results

Newer chemical formulations and methods often deliver the same results with lower toxicity. Regular chemical inventory reviews help eliminate outdated or unnecessary hazardous materials.

Optimize Freezer Efficiency and Cold Storage Management

Why Ultra-Low Temperature Freezers Use So Much Energy

Freezers are essential for storage, but they use a huge amount of energy. Second only to fume hoods, a lab’s cold storage is likely the next biggest consumer of energy. Ultra low-temperature freezers (-80°C) consume a lot of energy and are a large investment. A single ultra-low freezer on average uses ~8000 kWh, enough to power an entire house for about 9 months. 

Freezer Energy-Saving Best Practices

• Remove unused or expired samples
• Defrost units regularly
• Check and replace door seals
• Avoid placing freezers near heat sources
• Adjust temperatures where appropriate

Small changes can significantly reduce energy use and extend freezer lifespan.

Dispose of Hazardous Laboratory Waste Properly

EPA-Approved Hazardous Waste Disposal Practices

Hazardous chemicals should never be poured down drains or discarded in standard trash. Follow approved disposal methods, including sharps containers and medical waste systems when required.

Limitations of Fume Hood Waste Capture Systems

Some fume hoods include mechanisms for capturing vapors or solvents, but these are designed for small quantities and should not replace proper waste disposal protocols.

Adjust Laboratory Equipment Settings to Reduce Energy Use

Assess Airflow, Exhaust, and Power Output

Many lab systems operate at higher settings than necessary. Reviewing airflow rates, exhaust schedules, and power output can reduce energy consumption without affecting daily operations.

Maintain Laboratory Equipment for Long-Term Sustainability

Preventive Maintenance as a Sustainability Strategy

Routine maintenance improves efficiency, extends equipment life, and reduces premature replacement. Preventive care supports both sustainability goals and operational reliability.

Building a Greener Laboratory Starts with Smarter Operations

Improving lab sustainability doesn’t require a complete redesign. Small operational changes, consistent habits, and informed equipment management can reduce waste, lower energy costs, and support long-term performance—without sacrificing research quality.