Certified reference materials (CRMs) are the unsung heroes of analytical testing. They provide a comparability benchmark that ensures lab accuracy, precision, and repeatability. Yet, as with many aspects of modern industry, CRMs have an environmental toll. Packaging is an issue and an often overlooked contributor to waste generation.i
Certified reference materials are indispensable for instrument calibration and method validation. Hence, it's difficult for users to mitigate the environmental costs of CRM packaging without also compromising their results. This—of course—is a non-option. Instead, the burden of reducing the ecological implications of CRMs should lie with the manufacturer.
How are CRMs Packaged?
Before exploring the steps manufacturers can take to reduce the environmental burden of CRMs, it's helpful to examine typical packaging types. Primary packaging covers the systems that directly contact the product. Borosilicate glass ampoules, bottles, and vials, for example. These are single-use systems by design, to prevent cross-contamination and preserve the long-term integrity of standards.
Secondary packaging can be almost any type or size with various closures. At Inorganic Ventures, we've made a name for ourselves with innovative Transpiration Control Technology, or TCT packaging.
Transpiration Control Technology (TCT)
TCT bags are specifically designed for product shipping, ensuring that the CRMs reach the end-users without any compromise in their quality. One of the standout features of the TCT bag is its ability to halt transpiration effectively. Transpiration, in this context, refers to the loss of water vapor from the CRM, which can adversely affect its stability and shelf-life. By using TCT bags, this concern is effectively addressed, leading to an extended shelf-life of the CRMs.
Container Material Properties and Their Impact
The efficacy of a CRM is not just about the material itself but also how it's stored. The container's material properties play a crucial role as they can influence the stability of the CRM. For instance, certain materials might react with the CRM, compromising its integrity. While the primary focus is often on the CRM's accuracy, the environmental cost of these containers, especially if they are non-biodegradable, cannot be ignored.
It's difficult to calculate the environmental cost of CRM packaging. However, packaging in general remains an enormous source of waste in the US. Just over 50% of generated packaging materials are recycled each year, meaning around 30,000 tonnes are landfilled. Furthermore, life science labs are thought to produce around 5.5 million tons of plastic waste each year. This includes single-use vials.
At Inorganic Ventures, we've showcased our environmental commitment. We have revamped our packaging process, significantly reducing plastic usage and completely doing away with foam inserts. Such initiatives reduce the carbon footprint and set a precedent for other companies in the industry. Building on this, we've also taken the conscious decision to eliminate the use of heat-sealed bands from our products. While these bands served as a tamper-evident measure, we believe in evolving and adopting practices that harmonize with the environment. Our commitment goes beyond providing quality CRMs; it's about shaping a sustainable future for the industry and our planet.
References:
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https://cen.acs.org/environment/sustainability/laboratories-move-away-single-use/97/i43
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https://greenseal.org/programs/sustainable-packaging/