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Sep
Green Procurement in Science: Choosing Sustainable Labware Suppliers
Procurement is more than just purchasing — it shapes the environmental footprint of laboratories. From glassware to consumables, choosing suppliers with strong sustainability credentials can reduce waste, lower emissions, and support compliance with institutional green policies. For Australian schools, universities, and industry labs, green procurement ensures laboratories are not only efficient but also aligned with national and global sustainability goals.
Why Green Procurement Matters in Laboratories
Traditional lab procurement often prioritises cost and speed over environmental impact. This results in:
- Overreliance on single-use plastics.
- High carbon emissions from international shipping.
- Limited transparency in material sourcing.
By adopting green procurement policies, laboratories can reduce their carbon footprint, minimise hazardous waste, and support a circular economy. Institutions like the University of Melbourne and CSIRO already include sustainable sourcing in their procurement frameworks, setting examples for the broader scientific community.
Comparing Conventional vs Green Procurement
| Feature | Conventional Procurement | Green Procurement (Sustainable Suppliers) |
|---|---|---|
| Material Choice | Plastic-heavy, low durability | BORO 3.3 glass & recyclable plastics (PP, HDPE) |
| Supplier Location | Often international (high shipping emissions) | Local/Australian-owned suppliers |
| Waste Impact | High waste from disposables | Reduced waste through reusables |
| Compliance | Meets basic operational needs | Aligned with ISO 14001, institutional green policies |
| Cost Over Lifecycle | Low upfront, high long-term spend | Higher upfront, lower replacement & disposal cost |
Case Study: Local Procurement Benefits
A Sydney pharmaceutical QC lab shifted from overseas suppliers to LabChoice Australia for BORO 3.3 glassware. This reduced delivery emissions by 40% and provided access to ISO-compliant, reusable labware that replaced thousands of single-use plastics annually.
In education, a Victorian secondary school adopted LabChoice polypropylene beakers and glassware under a sustainability program. Teachers reported improved durability and significant reductions in classroom waste, aligning with the school’s green certification goals.
LabChoice Advantage
LabChoice Australia is an Australian-owned supplier committed to sustainable procurement. By offering BORO 3.3 glassware and recyclable polypropylene labware, LabChoice helps institutions meet green policy goals while reducing environmental impact. Local sourcing also cuts shipping emissions and provides faster, more reliable delivery across Australia.
FAQs
What makes a lab supplier “green”?
Suppliers who prioritise reusable materials, recyclable plastics, and ISO-certified products while reducing carbon emissions.
Do green suppliers cost more?
Upfront costs may be higher, but long-term savings come from durability, reduced replacements, and lower waste disposal costs.
Can procurement policies influence sustainability goals?
Yes. Many universities in Australia embed sustainability requirements into procurement contracts.
Does LabChoice supply both glass and plastic options?
Yes, LabChoice provides BORO 3.3 glassware and polypropylene/HDPE plastics, allowing flexibility without compromising sustainability.
📚 References
Standards & Specifications
- ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental management systems — Requirements with guidance for use. International Organization for Standardization.
https://www.iso.org/standard/60857.html - AS/NZS ISO 20400:2018 – Sustainable Procurement — Guidance. Standards Australia.
Academic & Industry Reports
- CSIRO – Sustainable Procurement Framework – Best Practices in Green Procurement for Australian Research Facilities.
https://www.csiro.au - University of Melbourne – Sustainability Plan 2030 – Procurement & Supply Chain Goals for Green Labs.
- Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) – Sustainable Procurement in Government and Institutions.
https://www.dcceew.gov.au
