Laboratories are indispensable hubs for innovation and research, but they are also some of the largest energy consumers. In Switzerland, where sustainability is increasingly becoming a central topic, eco-friendly and energy-efficient solutions in laboratory planning are gaining more and more importance. With modern technologies, optimized workflows, and well-thought-out planning concepts, laboratories can not only work more resource-efficiently but also reduce operating costs and significantly lower environmental impact.
This article provides detailed insights into how you can implement sustainable approaches in your laboratory while ensuring safety, efficiency, and functionality.
Approaches to Sustainable Laboratory Planning and Operations
Energy-Efficient Ventilation Systems
Ventilation is one of the largest energy consumers in laboratories since conditioned air is often circulated continuously. Thoughtful air system planning can lead to significant savings:
Variable Air Volume (VAV) Systems: These systems automatically adjust the airflow to the actual demand. In contrast to constant systems (CAV), which always run at full capacity, VAV systems drastically reduce energy consumption. They lower operating costs by conditioning less air (heating, cooling, or humidifying).
Heat Recovery: Heat exchangers can use exhaust air to preheat or cool incoming air, significantly reducing energy costs.
Automated Closing: Modern laboratory fume hoods, like those from Köttermann, feature the “AutoProtect” mechanism, which ensures the front sash closes automatically when not in use. This saves energy and increases safety.
Sustainable Materials and Laboratory Furniture
The choice of materials plays a central role in planning a sustainable laboratory. In addition to durability and functionality, recycling potential and ecological footprint should also be considered:
Steel as a Sustainable Option: Laboratory furniture made of steel offers exceptional durability and hygiene. Additionally, steel is almost infinitely recyclable, which helps reduce resource consumption over time. Advances in steel production, such as using hydrogen from renewable energy, further reduce CO2 emissions.
Modular Furniture Systems: These systems allow laboratories to adapt to new requirements without major renovations. This saves time, resources, and costs.
TRESPA® TOPLAB® PLUS ALIGN: These innovative panels are specifically designed for laboratory use and represent sustainability and quality. Manufactured with bio-based materials and cutting-edge production technologies, they offer high resistance to chemicals and mechanical impacts while actively contributing to the reduction of the ecological footprint. Thanks to their durability and low maintenance requirements, they are ideal for sustainable laboratory solutions.
Optimizing Lighting
Efficient lighting systems can significantly reduce energy consumption. Especially in laboratories where long working hours are common, switching to energy-efficient lighting quickly pays off:
LED Technology: LEDs consume up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and have a much longer lifespan.
Use of Daylight: Open media cells and strategically placed windows allow more daylight into the rooms, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
Energy-Efficient Laboratory Equipment
Laboratory equipment like refrigerators, freezers, centrifuges, and heating blocks are often running continuously, contributing significantly to energy consumption. Sustainable alternatives can make a big difference:
Modern Laboratory Equipment: New models are not only more energy-efficient but often come with additional energy-saving features like energy-saving modes.
Energy Monitoring: Smart circuit breakers, such as those used by Köttermann, can help identify energy guzzlers and optimize their usage.
Mindful Usage: Employees should be trained to switch off equipment when not in use or use timer power strips.
Resource-Saving Work Practices
Sustainability in laboratory operations requires not only technical solutions but also a shift in everyday working practices:
Training: Regular training sessions help employees internalize resource-saving work habits.
Shared Equipment: Sharing equipment reduces the need for new purchases, saving resources.
Efficient Use of Consumables: Initiatives like the Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF) promote the conscious use of plastics, water, and energy.
Sustainable Laboratory Fume Hoods: A Key Factor
Fume hoods are essential for safety but are also major energy consumers. According to estimates from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 40–60% of a laboratory’s total energy consumption comes from fume hoods and ventilation. Köttermann’s innovative technology offers solutions:
TouchTronic Control: Allows for precise airflow regulation, which reduces energy consumption.
VAV Systems: Automatically adjust exhaust air volume based on actual demand.
A particularly sustainable solution is the Köttermann EcoPlus laboratory fume hood, which impresses with its unique design and air technology.
Low Airflow: With a recommended constant airflow of just 275 m³/h per meter of fume hood width, the EcoPlus consumes about 30% less exhaust air than standard market fume hoods. This results in savings of up to 1,000 euros in operating costs per year.
No Exhaust Regulation System: The EcoPlus does not require a complex exhaust regulation system, making it the ideal choice for laboratories that are not equipped with advanced ventilation systems.
Conclusion: Sustainability as a Pathway to the Future
Sustainable laboratory planning is not a question of "if," but "how." By implementing modern technologies, sustainable materials, and optimized workflows, laboratories can save resources, lower costs, and comply with legal requirements.
Planning a Sustainable Laboratory?
Köttermann AG Switzerland supports you with customized solutions that combine efficiency, safety, and environmental friendliness. Contact us for personalized advice – together, we can create a laboratory that not only meets today’s requirements but is also equipped for the future.
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