Abstract
It is often shocking to see how much plastic is sent for recycling after a single experiment. Imagine the scale of it for your whole establishment, a country or the Laboratory Animal Science (LAS) community. Some universities are now taking action to significantly reduce single-use plastics. Labs across the globe routinely set their −80°C freezer to warmer temperatures (−60°C to −70°C) and save over one-third of energy consumption. Anaesthetists have stopped using gas like desflurane or nitrous oxide due to their very high greenhouse effect.
Green initiatives are flourishing in the LAS community. Establishments have joined accreditation schemes or set up policies to reduce environmental impact. Individuals (researchers, technicians, vets) have developed their own tricks. Strategic discussions now involve all stakeholders with sustainability in mind, for example, when designing a new facility and deciding on ventilation or disinfection and sterilisation of a barrier.
We would like to hear about all these initiatives: on the bench in the labs, in the animal facility, or even in the staff room! FELASA is collecting tips, good ideas, and references to peer-reviewed articles or useful news items that could help the LAS community in its effort to reduce environmental impact. All relevant received information will be shared on the FELASA website http://www.felasa.eu/, anonymously, for all to access easily. Please send your input to me (details below) and to Penny, the FELASA secretariat, at felasa@hushmail.com.
Another challenge for you: are you ready to cycle to the FELASA 2022 congress in Marseille http://www.felasa2022.eu/?