Laboratory to Nature: The Green Paradox of Scientific Research

Gwanjo Lee, Eunchan Lee, Jaesun Yoon, Nayeung Kim

Keywords: Laboratory sustainability, Environmental impact, Carbon footprint, Circular economy, Educational contagion

TL;DR: Wet laboratories consume 4-5x more energy than regular buildings, with procurement driving 50%+ of emissions, but AI optimization and behavioral change frameworks could cut lab carbon footprints by 45%.

Abstract: Wet laboratories are indispensable for scientific research but generate substantial environmental impacts, including high energy consumption, extensive single-use plastic waste, hazardous materials, and energy-intensive equipment such as fume hoods and ultra-low temperature freezers. Life sciences and molecular biology labs impose the greatest burden due to specialized consumables, while laboratory procurement contributes over 50% of greenhouse gas emissions, exceeding combined emissions from travel, commuting, and heating. This study systematically reviews literature from 2000–2024 to evaluate environmental burdens and identify intervention points. We propose an integrated sustainability framework combining AI-driven building optimization, circular economy strategies through permissioned blockchain resource sharing, and the “Educational Contagion” model to promote peer-driven behavioral change. Simulation and case studies suggest this approach can enhance adoption of sustainable practices by 60% and reduce annual laboratory carbon emissions by 45%. Successful programs such as Harvard’s “Shut the Sash” campaign and My Green Lab ACT certification demonstrate the feasibility of energy savings and cultural transformation. Achieving sustainable wet-lab operations requires coordinated actions across stakeholders: funding agencies embedding sustainability criteria, institutions implementing environmental monitoring and circular funding structures, manufacturers prioritizing life-cycle performance, and researchers adopting responsible practices, collectively reducing environmental burdens while maintaining scientific rigor.

Submission Number: 319