A combination of new data-intelligence technologies and better industry insight guidance affords the opportunity to not only advance lab operational efficiency through better asset utilization, but also increase sustainability in the digital lab era. The central premise for discussing sustainability and optimization in the same breath is that a lab running at maximum efficiency is a more sustainable one.

The average laboratory consumes more energy per square foot than hospitals and commercial buildings; in light of this, the combined impact imparted by the collective effect of all labs running at optimal levels of efficiency cannot be overstated. The EPA estimates that a 30% reduction in laboratory energy translates to an equivalent of removing 1.3 million cars off of highways per year.

Labs that are connected benefit from multiple efficiencies that bolster sustainability. Technologies such as smart alerts foster a proactive approach to instrument monitoring—rather than reacting to an instrument breakdown, an interconnected lab with smart alert software will prevent it from happening in the first place. Interconnectivity also enables the ability to make data driven decisions. .

For example, having visibility of all instruments at once to produce an overall lab footprint from which adjustments can be made to make the lab more effective and efficient. Or not having to waste time performing duplicate runs because the smart alert system fires when the first doesn't go through.

Interconnective technology can also increase instrument utilization because it calculates how much science any particular instrument performs per square inch. Sustainability isn't limited to the traditional 'green' metrics of waste and water— it is equally achieved through technology.

When labs work with an experienced, trusted partner, they have the ability to leverage a great resource of knowledge that when applied to the lab enhances real sustainability. They can help customers purchase smarter by knowing how to properly assess what is currently in a lab which can improve a lab's literal footprint—where to reduce five instruments to three, when to sell old systems to free up capital to fund new innovation.

A reliable partner also has the industry knowledge to advise a customer on their options for performing the kind of science they need to meet business needs—and they can give reliable counsel on how to reach these goals within a changing business landscape.