Sustaining momentum in the quest for greener laboratories
Scientific research has shaped our world in more ways than we could possibly count, thanks to the innovative work carried out in laboratories globally. Now more than ever, researchers are playing a key role in the quest for a more sustainable future.
By Clare Dyer-Smith, Programme Manager, Science Communities, Royal Society of Chemistry
Many, in the chemical sciences and beyond, are also increasingly turning their focus to the environmental impact of labs themselves. Indeed, 84% of respondents to our Sustainable laboratories survey said they want to reduce the environmental impact of their work. Data also revealed that 63% of respondents have already made changes to reduce the environmental impact within their laboratory in the last two years, but there is more that we can all do.
These sentiments were echoed by Members of our Subject Community Councils, who initiated our work on this topic. By drawing on discussions with these key member groups, and conducting a worldwide survey of 700 chemical scientists, we launched the Sustainable Laboratories report in October 2022 with a mission to do what science does best: use knowledge to drive change and improve how we interact with our environment for the good of everyone. Our report illustrated examples where individuals or organisations have been proactive but also highlighted gaps and challenges, alongside a clear desire and need for more progress.
As we start another new year, it seems like an apt time to reflect on the progress so far in this topic and the role of both individuals and organisations in addressing the technical and broader cultural changes that might still be needed.
Since publication, our report has been viewed and downloaded thousands of times and last year it featured prominently in our ‘Join In’ campaign, which highlights how chemistry is working to make the world better for all. We have also used the findings to develop other activities that support chemical scientists keen to reduce the environmental footprint of laboratory work.
A key finding of our report was the need for partnership and collaboration to share best practice. That is why we have continued to engage with key stakeholders, including by collaborating with organisations outside the chemical sciences. After all, the challenge of realising a sustainable scientific sector will be solved by researchers from a whole host of disciplines.
Last May, we partnered with the Royal Society for 'Sustainability in the Research and Innovation Endeavour'. The conference was co-chaired by Professor Helen Sneddon, of the University of York, who is a member of our Organic Chemistry Community Council, and featured contributions from sustainability champions across the sciences, including several RSC members and staff.
Professor Sneddon said: "Many organisations and initiatives are driving change. We need to draw upon a wealth of experiences that people with different roles, from different sectors and disciplines can bring to this problem."
Meanwhile, in September, a special Chemistry World webinar, 'Innovating for the future of sustainable labs', shared practical insights on lab sustainability with a global audience.
We are not alone in looking at how science can be more sustainable. Using findings from our report and our ongoing work, we also recently responded to UKRI’s consultation on the new Concordat for Environmental Sustainability of Research and Innovation Practice. Meanwhile, we have shared our insights and the views of our community with other stakeholder groups, including technicians, suppliers, policymakers and funders, at events and meetings over the past year.
The reception we’ve seen to our report and engagement with the community is incredibly encouraging. What started as a series of discussions with our Science Community Councils three years ago has grown to a collective, cross-disciplinary conversation on sustainable research.
As well as inspiring others to join the cause and sharing resources, we are providing funding to support the chemical sciences community in their efforts. We will soon announce which projects we will support via our £500,000 Sustainable Laboratories Grants funding scheme. This money will empower researchers and their institutions to advance our understanding of sustainable laboratory practice, embed sustainability, and share best practice so that others can benefit.
Keep your eyes peeled to learn more about the funded projects – and watch out for information about other Sustainable Laboratories initiatives this year, too. To discover more about our actions to help our community on its journey to sustainable laboratories or to get involved in our future work:
- Visit the Sustainable Laboratories page, read the report and find resources.
- Read the report and watch the presentations from our conference with the Royal Society.
- Watch the Chemistry World webinar, Innovating for the future of sustainable labs, for practical advice on embedding sustainability into laboratory work.
- Get involved in shaping our future programmes by standing for election to our Subject Community Councils.