Dry Labs / Computer Labs
While adopting digital working formats can enhance sustainability, the digital world and dry lab tools still contribute significantly to CO₂ emissions due to energy consumption and the resources required for equipment production. By making small changes in daily practices, labs can make a meaningful impact in reducing their digital carbon footprint.
For instance:
- Storing files in the cloud and sharing links rather than attachments in emails saves energy.
- Developing a smart, well-organized data management strategy within research groups can optimize resource use.
- Applying FAIR data principles and regularly cleaning up duplicates or archiving data to cold storage minimizes unnecessary digital waste.
- Using more energy-efficient algorithms and promoting proper computer practices such as using power save mode, shutting down systems, and reducing screen brightness are effective steps.
- Additionally, purchasing from companies that demonstrate clear sustainability efforts in their production processes helps minimize the broader environmental impact.
Useful Links:
The Carbon Footprint of Bioinformatics
PRACTICAL GUIDE TO SUSTAINABLE RESEARCH DATA
Green Algorithms: Quantifying the Carbon Footprint of Computation