Decarbonising research methods

What is decarbonisation?

Research activity requires resources which have a “carbon cost”. They may be created via traditional plastics (e.g. disposable sampling component), have high energy demands (e.g. high kW electivity use) or may create waste which disposed of via burning. Decarbonisation is the process through which we change methods used in order to have a lower carbon cost.

How can research reduce it’s carbon use?

Whilst some carbon use may be systemic and outwith the direct control of individual researchers, there are many things which can be done!

• Assess you current carbon use – evaluate what you are doing within your research setting and be informed about how the current methods generate carbon use
• Explore new methods – Are there refinements to the methods being used which can lower carbon use? e.g. how often you are repeating a test
• Explore new research products – Are there different/new products which could be used to lower the carbon cost e.g. use of glass/metal products over plastics