37 Green Solutions
The environmental benefi ts extend to greenhouse gas emissions as well. Studies have also shown how single-use technology can lower the global warming potential of a typical process by 25%, a substantial contribution to reducing the carbon footprint of bioprocessing facilities [4]. In practical terms, switching to single-use systems for a single 2,000 L monoclonal antibody process can save as much as 300,000 litres (about 80,000 gallons) of water, which equates to 16,000 5-gallon water cooler bottles or more than the average annual water usage for two people.
Ultimately, single-use technologies exemplify how advances in design and materials can deliver on both sustainability and performance. By reducing resource consumption, supporting fl exible and scalable operations and enabling rapid adoption of more sustainable materials, single-use systems help laboratories and bioprocessing facilities meet their operational goals while supporting a lower environmental footprint, making them a win for both labs and the health of the planet.
The role of automation, analytics and
collaboration One of the most transformative enablers of sustainability in laboratory environments is the integration of automation, advanced analytics and Process Analytical Technology (PAT). Automation has been proven to help reduce manual intervention, decrease the likelihood of human error and enable precise control over complex processes. PAT in particular provides real-time monitoring and control of critical quality attributes during laboratory and bioprocessing operations. This real-time insight allows laboratories to detect even the slightest deviations in process variables, ensuring that workfl ows remain consistent and effi cient as more sustainable materials or methods are introduced.
The combination of PAT with automation is especially valuable when validating the performance of new sustainable materials. Automated systems, equipped with advanced sensors and PAT tools, can continuously monitor a multitude of factors during each process. This data-rich environment enables rapid assessment of how plant-based polymers or other novel materials perform relative to established benchmarks, reducing the time and resources required for validation. Advanced analytics, powered by artifi cial intelligence and machine learning, further enhances this capability by processing large volumes of data, identifying patterns and predicting outcomes. These technologies empower laboratories to make informed, data-driven decisions and accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices and materials.
Additionally, predictive modelling tools that leverage data from PAT and automation platforms allow labs to assess the potential impact of changes before implementation, further reducing risk and facilitating smoother transitions. Together, this helps increase confi dence in moving toward more sustainable options and also supports continuous process improvement and operational excellence.
The advancement of sustainability in laboratories is not possible alone. True progress in sustainability requires collaboration across the entire ecosystem – from suppliers and manufacturers to researchers, academia and regulatory bodies. Knowledge sharing is a vital component of this collaborative effort, and by pooling expertise and data, the industry can more rapidly accelerate innovation [5].
Cross-function collaboration has the potential to lead signifi cant industry-wide changes. Early adopters of sustainable practices have helped pave the way for further implementation, demonstrating through rigorous data and practical experience that plant-based consumables and other innovations can deliver performance on par with, or even superior to, traditional options. Their success has lowered barriers to adoption for others, creating a positive cycle where each new implementation builds
confi dence and momentum. As more organisations foster this way of collaborative thinking, the adoption of sustainable materials and processes will further accelerate, driving advancement and making sustainability not just an aspiration, but an expectation.
Looking Ahead: Making Sustainability the New Standard
Looking ahead, sustainable laboratory innovation is highly encouraging. Advances in workfl ow optimisation, digital technologies and material science are providing laboratories with tools that enhance both scientifi c outcomes and environmental responsibility. Integrating sustainable materials, refi ning operational practices and upgrading laboratory infrastructure now offer strategic advantages, including improved resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry landscape.
Laboratories that take a proactive approach to sustainable practices will be well- equipped to navigate evolving regulations, meet growing expectations from stakeholders and address potential vulnerabilities in global supply chains. This transformation is driven by collaboration, rigorous data analysis and a willingness to embrace new methodologies, all of which underscore scientifi c advancement.
Today, laboratories have an important opportunity to set new standards for environmental and social responsibility throughout the scientifi c community. By committing to sustainable solutions and fostering an environment of shared learning and continuous improvement, laboratories can ensure the ongoing integrity and impact of their research. Just as importantly, they contribute to global efforts to build a healthier and cleaner future. Through leadership in sustainability, laboratories can help defi ne the next era of scientifi c progress – one that benefi ts both society and the environment for future generations.
References
1. Ashray Krishnaraja. ‘Sustainability in the Lab’. ANZ Science News, Thermo Fisher Scientifi c, 3 Sept. 2024,
www.thermofi
sher.com/blog/anz-science-news/ sustainability-in-the-lab/
2. ‘Mass Balance’. ISCC System, 4 July 2025,
www.iscc-system.org/about/ sustainability/chain-of-custody/mass-balance/
3. Beyond PFAS - Fluoropolymers,
chemsec.org/app/uploads/2024/10/241022-Beyond- PFAS-webinar-Fluoropolymers.pdf
4. ‘Single-use bioprocessing systems’. Thermo Fisher Scientifi c, 2024, https://assets. fi
shersci.com/TFS-Assets/BPD/Reference-Materials/single-use-technologies-green- fact-sheet.pdf
5. Sustainable Bioprocessing Future,
prism.sustainability-directory.com About the author:
Dr John P. Puglia is the senior director of research and development in Thermo Fisher Scientifi c’s bioprocessing business focusing on single-use technologies. He holds a PhD from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell in polymer science/plastics engineering and has been awarded more than 50 patents.
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