As schools strive to reduce their carbon footprint, one area that often goes unnoticed is the laboratory. However, by implementing energy-efficient laboratory equipment, schools can significantly reduce their energy consumption and save money on utility bills. Energy-efficient equipment includes fume hoods, refrigerators, and freezers that consume less energy, produce fewer greenhouse gases, and require less maintenance.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, laboratory equipment accounts for up to 70% of a laboratory’s energy consumption. Traditional fume hoods can consume up to three times more energy than modern, energy-efficient fume hoods. Energy-efficient fume hoods feature variable air volume control, which adjusts the amount of air that passes through the hood, depending on the user’s needs. This reduces the amount of conditioned air that is exhausted and saves energy.

Another way to reduce energy consumption is by implementing energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers. Ultra-low temperature freezers, for instance, can consume up to 20,000 kilowatt-hours per year, which translates into significant energy savings when replaced with an energy-efficient model. An energy-efficient ultra-low temperature freezer can consume up to 50% less energy than a standard model.

In addition to reducing energy consumption, energy-efficient laboratory equipment can help schools achieve sustainability goals by reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, laboratory equipment accounts for 15% of a laboratory’s greenhouse gas emissions. Energy-efficient fume hoods and refrigerators produce fewer greenhouse gases, helping schools reduce their carbon footprint.

Moreover, energy-efficient laboratory equipment requires less maintenance, resulting in fewer maintenance-related costs. Traditional fume hoods, for instance, require a lot of maintenance, including regular filter replacements and calibration. Energy-efficient fume hoods require less maintenance, reducing the amount of time and money spent on upkeep.

Energy-efficient laboratory equipment also helps to ensure the safety of laboratory personnel. Energy-efficient fume hoods, for instance, feature sensors that monitor the air quality and alert users when the air quality falls below safe levels. They also feature safety shut-off valves that close the fume hood when hazardous chemicals are detected.

In conclusion, implementing energy-efficient laboratory equipment in schools can bring significant environmental and financial benefits. By reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, schools can contribute to a more sustainable future while saving money on utility bills. In addition, energy-efficient laboratory equipment requires less maintenance, ensuring safety for laboratory personnel and reducing maintenance-related costs. Schools can take a step towards sustainability by upgrading their laboratory equipment to more energy-efficient models.

Sources:

• U.S. Department of Energy. “Reducing Energy Costs in Labs.” Energy.gov, 1 June 2015, www.energy.gov/eere/articles/reducing-energy-costs-labs.
• “Energy Efficiency in Laboratories.” Harvard University, Green Building Services, 2021, green.harvard.edu/tools-resources/best-practices/energy-efficiency-laboratories.
• “Sustainable Laboratories.” U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 7 May 2021, www.epa.gov/sustainability/sustainable-laboratories.