How chemists are making laboratories more sustainable
A collection of articles sharing tips from researchers who reduced their environmental impact with support from the RSC’s Sustainable Laboratories grants
Chemistry plays a vital role in tackling global challenges, but we also recognise that scientific research itself can have a significant environmental footprint. In 2021, the chemical sciences community told the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) there was a strong appetite to reduce the impact of laboratory research. Conversations with RSC Science Subject Community Councils, alongside a global survey of nearly 700 scientists, led to the publication of the RSC Sustainable Laboratories report in 2022. The report explored the challenges involved in implementing more sustainable practices, and highlighted common barriers: from limited data and expertise to time pressures and funding constraints.