1
Sep
Laboratory Energy Efficiency: How Green Labs Reduce Carbon Footprints
Laboratories are among the most energy-intensive facilities in the world, consuming 3–5 times more energy per square metre than office buildings. From fume hoods to autoclaves, scientific equipment requires constant power, making energy efficiency a top priority for sustainable lab operations. For Australian universities, schools, and industry labs, reducing energy consumption not only lowers operational costs but also helps achieve national net-zero carbon targets.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Labs
Unlike other workplaces, laboratories run high-powered equipment, require controlled air circulation, and often operate 24/7. This makes them major contributors to institutional carbon footprints. In Australia, initiatives such as the Green Lab programs at Monash and the University of Melbourne highlight that energy-efficient practices can save millions of kilowatt-hours annually while maintaining safety and compliance.
High-Consumption Equipment and Their Impact
| Equipment | Energy Use Profile | Green Lab Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Fume Hoods | Can account for 30–50% of a lab’s energy use | Install variable air volume (VAV) hoods; shut sash when not in use |
| Autoclaves | Consume high steam and electricity | Use high-efficiency cycles; avoid under-loading |
| Ultra-Low Freezers (-80 °C) | Each consumes as much as a small house | Raise setpoint to -70 °C; adopt shared freezer management |
| Centrifuges & Incubators | Continuous running = high baseline energy | Switch to energy-efficient models; power down when idle |
| Lighting & HVAC | HVAC loads are up to 65% of lab energy | LED retrofits, occupancy sensors, optimised airflow |
Case Study: Australian University Carbon Reduction
Monash University implemented a “Shut the Sash” campaign across its chemistry labs, encouraging staff and students to close fume hood sashes when not in use. This simple behavioural change reduced energy consumption by 30% per hood, cutting emissions while saving over $180,000 annually. Similarly, the University of Queensland improved freezer efficiency by replacing old models with ENERGY STAR-rated systems, reducing electricity use by 40% in one building alone.
LabChoice Advantage
LabChoice Australia supports energy efficiency by supplying BORO 3.3 glassware that withstands repeated autoclaving, reducing the need for single-use plastics and chemical sterilisation. By choosing durable, reusable glassware, labs can lower both their energy and waste footprints while aligning with sustainability goals.
FAQs
Why are fume hoods so energy-intensive?
They constantly pull conditioned air out of the building, requiring HVAC systems to replace it — often 24/7.
Is raising freezer temperature safe?
Yes. Studies show -70 °C preserves most biological samples just as effectively as -80 °C, with huge energy savings.
Do small changes really add up?
Yes. Even minor actions like shutting sashes and turning off unused centrifuges can save thousands of kilowatt-hours yearly.
Can schools benefit from energy efficiency too?
Absolutely. Australian schools adopting LED lighting, efficient HVAC, and reusable glassware save both energy and budget.
📚 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 3598.2:2014 – Energy audits — Buildings. Standards Australia & Standards New Zealand.
Academic & Safety Guides
- CSIRO – Net Zero Labs Initiative – Energy-Efficient Practices in Australian Research Facilities. CSIRO, Australia.
https://www.csiro.au - Monash University – Green Labs Program – Reducing Energy and Waste in Research Labs. Monash Sustainability.
- University of Queensland – Sustainability Report (2022) – Laboratory Freezer Energy Reduction Program.
- U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) – Best Practices for Laboratory Energy Efficiency.
