Are We Sustainable?

Sustainability. It’s a word we hear a lot, but what does it actually mean to be sustainable in the laboratory? Is it recycling pipettes? Switching off the lights? How much of the talk on sustainability is serious and how much is just spiel?

Are We Sustainable? aims to teach and arm laboratory professionals with the knowledge to take action on climate change. Throughout May 2023, you’ll find interviews, how-tos, and deep dives on a variety of sustainability topics – everything from eco podcasters to a polemic on greenwashing.

We hope that with the knowledge throughout these articles, the feature’s main question can be answered. Are we sustainable? Perhaps not. But we can be.

Podcasts! Sustainability! What could be better? A podcast about sustainability, of course! For the longest time it seemed that environmental action was unfashionable – better left for ecowarriors rather than laboratory professionals. But for the hosts of The Caring Scientist: Mission Sustainable, wanting to make a difference couldn’t be a cooler endeavour…

Need quick ideas on making the lab more sustainable? We’ve got you covered. Watch this speedy list of obtainable and scalable tips that will set you off on the road to sustainability.

Talk is cheap. How do we actually make our labs more sustainable? Sheri Scott gives her practical deep dive in lab sustainability.

How much of lab sustainability is serious and how much is just spiel? George Francis Lee discusses how greenwashing is interfering with sustainability efforts, and is helping to secure our situation in the red.

From salesperson to sustainability guru, Andy Evans gives his detailed guide on “greening your laboratory”. Learn what things to look out for, and what things you should prioritize.

The Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework is a leading assement for lab sustainability. Martin Farley – one of the important people helping to run the framework – explains more.