The Environmental and Economic Benefits of Choosing Used Laboratory Equipment

Laboratories worldwide are seeking ways to reduce costs and minimise their environmental impact. One of the most effective strategies is choosing refurbished laboratory equipment. This approach not only promotes sustainability in scientific research but also helps institutions manage budgets effectively. In this blog, we explore how opting for second-hand lab equipment contributes to reducing waste, lowering carbon footprints, and supporting the circular economy.

Read more about global e-waste issues from the United Nations

1. Reduces Electronic Waste (E-Waste)

Why is E-Waste a Problem?

Electronic waste is a major global issue, with millions of tonnes of functional but discarded lab instruments ending up in disposal facilities every year. Many of these items contain valuable materials that could be reused, as well as hazardous substances that contribute to environmental pollution if not handled properly.

How Refurbished Lab Equipment Helps

By choosing refurbished lab equipment, institutions can help reduce the volume of discarded scientific instruments while ensuring that valuable tools are kept in circulation. High-quality lab instruments—such as centrifuges, incubators, and microscopes—are built for long-term use and often retain their full functionality when properly maintained. Purchasing second-hand equipment:

1. Extends the lifespan of valuable laboratory instruments
2. Reduces the environmental burden of disposal
3. Encourages laboratories to operate with resource efficiency

Learn about responsible e-waste disposal from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

2. Lowers Carbon Footprint

The Environmental Cost of New Lab Equipment

The manufacturing process for new laboratory instruments is resource intensive. From raw material extraction to energy consuming production and global transportation, every new piece of equipment contributes significantly to carbon emissions.

The Sustainable Alternative: Reusing Equipment

Opting for re-used lab instruments helps laboratories cut down on these emissions by reducing the need for new equipment production. This shift toward sustainable procurement allows institutions to:

1. Reduce the demand for new raw materials
2. Minimise emissions from manufacturing and shipping
3. Support broader carbon neutrality initiatives in research institutions

Many universities and research facilities have adopted green procurement policies, encouraging the purchase of refurbished lab equipment to help meet sustainability targets.

Read about carbon reduction strategies in research from the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

3. Encourages Circular Economy Practices

What is the Circular Economy?

The circular economy is a system designed to eliminate waste and maximise resource use. Unlike the traditional “take-make-dispose” model, the circular economy focuses on:

1. Refurbishing and reusing existing resources
2. Reducing unnecessary waste in laboratory settings
3. Reinvesting in equipment longevity rather than frequent disposal

How Refurbished Equipment Supports the Circular Economy

Laboratory equipment is highly durable and often remains in excellent working condition long after an institution has moved on to newer models. By purchasing refurbished instruments, laboratories actively contribute to:

1. Waste prevention of working equipment
2. Encouraging a culture of reuse in scientific research
3. Supporting innovation in sustainable laboratory practices

The refurbished equipment market also creates new business opportunities and encourages responsible waste management across the scientific industry.

Learn about the circular economy from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation

Conclusion

Investing in refurbished lab equipment is a win-win solution for research institutions. Not only does it contribute to cost savings, but it also helps reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and support the circular economy. UniGreenScheme provides high quality, second hand lab equipment to institutions looking to make more sustainable choices while maintaining high research standards.

By incorporating reused laboratory equipment into procurement strategies, laboratories can drive positive environmental change and optimise their budgets without compromising on quality.