Courtesy of ELGA Editorial Team – shortened version
Science is crucial in tackling global challenges like medicine development and climate change. However, laboratories that drive scientific discovery have a significant environmental impact. They rely heavily on plastic labware, consume excessive energy, and use valuable water resources. This burden on the environment is becoming more evident as concerns about climate change and resource depletion grow, with the World Resources Institute projecting a 40% shortfall in global freshwater resources by 2030. Data from WRI’s Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas points out that the biggest change in water demand between now and 2050 will occur in Sub-Saharan Africa with demand growing faster than in any other region in the world. Therefore, sustainable laboratory practices are essential.
Laboratories across all sectors need to adopt sustainable practices to reduce their carbon footprint and minimize environmental impact. Key areas for improvement include minimizing energy consumption, water usage, and plastic waste. One solution is adopting carbon-conscious, eco-friendly devices. When updating equipment, consider devices with lower carbon footprints, higher energy efficiency, and optimized water use.
Water purification has emerged as a critical focus for sustainability in laboratories. Given the reliance on high-quality purified water for various applications, addressing water sustainability is crucial. In response, ELGA designed the PURELAB® flex range, which integrates sustainability into water purification. These systems offer significant benefits, such as reduced energy consumption, lower water waste, and decreased carbon emissions:
- Lowered Carbon Footprint: The PURELAB flex incorporates reclaimed and sustainably sourced materials, reducing embedded emissions through greener manufacturing processes.
- Smart Water Management: With advanced technologies, including a new reverse osmosis module, the system delivers high-quality water while minimizing water waste.
- Responsible Energy Consumption: Features like eco mode allow users to reduce energy consumption by up to 55% without disrupting workflows.
The PURELAB flex balances sustainability with performance, offering superior water purification while minimizing environmental impact. Its robust design and durable components ensure reliable performance, even with extended use. This long lifespan reduces the need for frequent replacements, contributing to waste reduction.
By investing in sustainable solutions like the PURELAB flex, laboratories can make significant strides toward a greener future. Reducing plastic waste, energy use, and water consumption can help laboratories support sustainable research. As existing equipment reaches the end of its lifecycle, prioritizing energy efficiency and carbon footprint when purchasing new devices is crucial.
The PURELAB flex offers an excellent example of how laboratories can achieve both sustainability and high performance, contributing to a greener future for science and the planet.
