In today’s world, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. As societal expectations evolve, so must our approaches to sustainability, especially in specialized environments like laboratories.
Understanding Sustainability
Sustainability is about meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It encompasses long-term ecological, social, and economic health. In the context of laboratories, this means managing waste, energy, and resources efficiently while ensuring the safety and well-being of staff.
The Evolution of Sustainability Expectations
Historically, societies lived within natural limits, using local resources and regenerative cycles. However, the industrial revolution brought about unprecedented consumption and environmental degradation. Over the decades, awareness grew, leading to significant milestones like the establishment of the U.S. EPA and the Paris Agreement. The result of this is that sustainability is no longer an option, it is expected. Companies are expected to be transparent about their ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) practices, reduce their carbon footprint, and uphold ethical labor practices.
Navigating Sustainability in the Lab
Laboratories face unique challenges in sustainability. They generate significant waste, consume high amounts of electricity ranging from 1.5X to 5X higher than standard commercial space, use greater amounts of water, and handle hazardous samples and chemicals. To navigate these challenges, labs must adopt enterprise-wide comprehensive waste management programs, implement energy-efficient practices, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
A Realistic Approach to Sustainability For Your Lab
Achieving sustainability in the lab requires a realistic and structured approach. Here are some key steps:
- Establish the Why: Understand and communicate the importance of sustainability for your lab. This could be to meet client demands, improve operational efficiency, or attract top talent.
- Assign Ownership: Designate a Sustainability lead or a small cross-functional team to coordinate efforts and track progress.
- Conduct a Baseline Assessment: Evaluate current practices and identify areas for improvement.
- Set Small, Realistic Goals: Align goals with client expectations and operational value. Aside from reducing the use of electricity, water, and other natural resources, find meaningful actions that the majority can get behind and support.
Examples include: Recycling or eliminating all plastic drink bottles and moving to reusable/refillable bottles, eliminate all plastic utensils and find a suitable alternative, encourage staff of bring lunches in reusable containers (select a day and designate “Sustainable Lunch Day”), and any other ideas that conserves resources or eliminates landfill waste are worthy of consideration.
Most importantly, pick something that is widely supported, establish the process, get buy in, and make a difference! - Develop a Sustainability Policy: Create a policy that outlines your lab’s commitment to sustainability.
- Track, Improve, and Communicate: Continuously monitor progress, make improvements, and communicate achievements.
The Future of Sustainability in the Lab
The future of sustainability in laboratories lies in advanced technologies and cultural shifts. Adaptive ventilation systems, green chemistry approaches, and smart building systems are just a few examples of how labs can reduce their environmental impact. Moreover, fostering a culture of sustainability among lab employees is crucial for long-term success.
As society continues to place expectation on companies and we embrace the reality of our environmental responsibilities, laboratories can contribute to a sustainable future while ensuring their own long-term viability through realistic, proactive approaches.