Page 23 - FoodFocusThailand No.155_February 19

SPECIAL FOCUS

Design (LEED) certifications demonstrate that they put being
resourceful as a top priority. This LEED certification can even
allow a laboratory to qualify for extra grants and tax reductions.

Conclusion
Researchers have more access to equipment and a greater
ability to collaborate than ever before. By embracing
advancements in laboratory automation and through adopting
environmental strategies, scientists are able to streamline
procedures and cut costs. These advancements are growing
and spreading across more fields than ever in popularity, meaning results are obtained faster, more
anticipated. As the technology grows, we are efficiently, and cost effectively.
gaining more and more flexibility in function and
application, meaning a single machine is now เอกสารอ้างอิง/Reference
able to complete many different tasks. www.technologynetworks.com/tn/lists/four-laboratory-equipment-and-technology-trends-294228
Automation eliminates a lot of the time
consuming, repetitive experimental steps, which,
in the past, would have been manually performed.
Results can now be generated in a fraction of
the time that they used to take! This new-found
time allows laboratory technicians the ability to
focus their critical thinking skills on the analysis
of data, rather than spending time recording data.
Automation can be used in a number of
different areas including: Robotics, Primary
screening, Genomics and Proteomics. Different
automation tools are being used to aid scientists
throughout the entire research process extending
to even meet needs outside of the laboratory.
New Sustainability Options Growing
4environmental concerns affect all fields of
work, including scientific research. Unfortunately,
research laboratories use about five times the
amount of energy, per square foot, as a regular
office space. The equipment and unsocial hours
use up a lot of resources. Luckily, advancements
have given scientists ways to be as efficient with
resources as possible.
Labs all over the world are utilizing new ‘open
labs’ that allow researchers to share equipment
and resources in the laboratory. Equipment is
extremely expensive and open labs allow access
to many people at a reduced cost to both the
scientists and the lab.
Recycling — a simple concept, yet it can
easily be over looked. Recycling is a great option
for laboratories to wisely dispose of used
containers and equipment given that they are
following environmental, health and safety
guidelines. Buying items made from recycled
materials keeps the cycle going. Plus, recycled
materials are generally less expensive.
Laboratories have become eco-friendlier by
cutting down on how many resources they use.
Automation and other technologies increase
efficiency, labs can calculate exact numbers of
consumables and reagents required to complete
a procedure. This reduces waste and saves
money.
Another way that labs have been able to
ensure that they’re doing what they can
environmentally, is by adhering to specific
standards. For example, laboratories that qualify
for Leadership in Energy and Environmental

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