Carbon footprint and mitigation strategies of three chemistry laboratories

As the global imperative for decarbonization gains momentum, the need for action in chemistry laboratories becomes increasingly apparent. This study examines the 2019 carbon footprint of three French chemistry laboratories encompassing energy, purchases, travels, and commutes. The average per capita carbon footprint stands at 5.6 teqCO2/year, positioning chemistry laboratories slightly above the median calculated across all disciplines. Key contributors are purchases (31–42%) and heating (23–33%), driven by fume hoods, heavy equipment and consumables. Attainable mitigations strategies suggest a 40-50% reduction by 2030. Pivotal efforts involve transitioning heating sources to renewables, extending equipment lifespan, collaborative resource management, as well as a limitation in the use of planes and thermic cars. Such changes imply actions at the level of the government, the university and the individual. We suggest fostering a sustainable research environment in chemistry laboratories by rationalizing experimental practices and dedicating time to consider the socio-environmental implications of research.