New carbon calculator helps research labs pinpoint emissions and target reductions
Research labs are among the most energy-hungry facilities at universities worldwide. According to both University College London and a Swiss initiative called Green Lab, these labs require anywhere from three to 10 times more power than standard offices of the same size.
A new carbon calculator developed at EPFL helps research labs accurately measure their emissions and target reductions. University of Lausanne and ETH Zurich are also considering adopting the tool. The calculator simplifies the process by automatically importing relevant data, such as lab size and power usage, allowing users to focus on inputting specifics like research trips and equipment.
Scientists can pinpoint where to reduce emissions and track the impact of changes over time. One pilot lab found that a space heater was a significant emitter, which they used to advocate for building improvements. The calculator uses the Greenhouse Gas Protocol to provide detailed breakdowns of emissions, aiding decision-making without compromising research.
While no calculation can capture every emission source, EPFL's tool offers a valuable starting point for labs to implement concrete emission reduction measures.
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