Earth-friendly Cooling: Sustainable Practices for Scientific Refrigeration

Introduction to Sustainable Refrigeration

As the world turns its attention to sustainability this Earth Day, we turn our focus to lab refrigeration. Lab refrigeration is essential to research, medicine, and science, but has historically relied on practices that harm the planet. Refrigerants with high global warming potential (GWP) and exorbitant energy use have dominated the field for decades. But today, a shift is underway—one that prioritizes eco-friendly cooling solutions without sacrificing performance. But how exactly does scientific refrigeration “go green”? Glad you asked. Let’s take a look.

The Problem with Conventional Refrigerants

For decades, laboratories have depended on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and other synthetic refrigerants to maintain precise temperature control. These compounds, while effective, are also potent greenhouse gases. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, some HFCs have a GWP thousands of times higher than carbon dioxide, making them a major contributor to climate change.¹

The global effort to phase out HFCs has gained momentum in recent years. International agreements have been made to protect the earth’s atmosphere. For example, the Montreal Protocol is one such agreement aimed at reducing the use of ozone-depleting substances. The Kigali Amendment to this protocol seeks to cut HFC emissions by more than 80% over the next few decades.² In response, the scientific refrigeration industry has turned to alternatives that are both effective and sustainable. Corepoint Scientific has embraced this shift to bring you natural refrigerant solutions, aligning with your scientific demands, and the planet.

A Natural Solution: Hydrocarbon Refrigerants

One of the most promising developments in refrigeration technology is the adoption of natural hydrocarbon refrigerants. Compounds such as propane (R-290) and isobutane (R-600a) offer a viable alternative to traditional HFCs. Unlike their synthetic counterparts, hydrocarbons have near-zero ozone depletion potential and significantly lower GWPs, making them a more environmentally responsible choice.

Beyond their sustainability credentials, hydrocarbon refrigerants are also highly efficient. Their superior thermodynamic properties allow refrigeration systems to use less energy while maintaining stable cooling performance.

At Corepoint® Scientific, we’re committed to designing refrigeration systems that help laboratories reduce their carbon footprint while saving on energy use. We prioritize natural refrigerants that deliver clean, efficient energy to empower your lab and protect the planet.

Smarter Energy Use with Variable Speed Compressors

Refrigerant choice is only part of the green equation. The way refrigeration systems consume energy also plays a crucial role in their environmental impact. Traditional fixed-speed compressors operate at a constant rate regardless of cooling demand, which leads to wasted energy.

Enter variable speed compressor (VSC) technology. Unlike their fixed-speed counterparts, VSCs dynamically adjust their power consumption based on cooling needs. This efficiency translates into lower energy usage, reduced operating costs, reduced wear and tear, extended equipment lifespan, and a smaller overall environmental footprint. Studies have shown that VSC-equipped refrigeration units can cut energy consumption by up to 40%, offering a practical and economic step toward greener laboratory operations.³

Corepoint® Scientific offers VSC-powered refrigeration in our lineup to bring you energy savings and a more sustainable planet. From refrigeration to specialized equipment, explore what Corepoint can offer you to reduce energy use and enhance sustainability in your lab.

A Commitment to Sustainable Science

This Earth Day, you have an opportunity to rethink your approach to scientific refrigeration. The push for sustainability is more than an industry trend—it’s the path of the future. As climate change accelerates, institutions, manufacturers, and researchers are working together to adopt greener practices. Corepoint® Scientific remains at the forefront of this movement, integrating hydrocarbon refrigerants and VSC technology into our products to help laboratories meet both scientific and environmental goals. By delivering sustainable cooling, our equipment can reduce your environmental impact while fueling your scientific progress—a big win for your laboratory and the planet.

Explore our sustainable laboratory solutions at corepointscientific.com or give us a call at 1-843-821-8010 (Option 3) to discuss the best options for your lab. We’re here to help.