HOW TO BUILD in 2025 E cient Government Labs A Comprehensive Guide to Ecient Laboratory Design and Operations ii | How to Build Efficient Government Labs in 2025 | 04.25 Government Scientific Source Designing and Building a Sustainable Lab 4 Proper Materials Selection Prioritizing Sustainable Materials Balancing Durability and Sustainability Designing for Energy Efficiency Optimizing Lab Layouts to Reduce Energy Demand Budgeting and Procurement for Sustainable Labs 5 Maximizing Efficiency While Staying on Budget Leveraging Cost-Saving Strategies in Green Construction Utilizing Government Contract Vehicles Strategic Procurement for Green Labs Certifications and Compliance Achieving Industry-Recognized Lab Certifications Future-Proofing Government Labs 6 Planning for Scalability and Adaptability Flexible Infrastructure for Future Innovation Investing in Long-Term Sustainability Measures Getting Started Today 7 Taking the Next Steps Toward a Sustainable Government Lab TABLE OF CONTENTS 03 | How to Build Efficient Government Labs in 2025 | 04.25 Government Scientific Source THE FUTURE OF GOVERNMENT LABS: INNOVATION MEETS INGENUITY Government laboratories are essential to scientific discovery, national security, and public health, but they are also among the most high consumption facilities in operation today. This white paper provides a practical road map for building sustainable cost-effective government labs. With expert insights, this guide outlines proven strategies for creating more streamlined facilities—whether through new construction or retrofits of existing spaces. By following these principles, labs can lower operational costs and align with federal mandates, all while maintaining scientific excellence. 04 | How to Build Efficient Government Labs in 2025 | 04.25 Government Scientific Source DESIGNING AND BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE LAB PROPER MATERIALS SELECTION Prioritizing Sustainable Materials Sustainability starts from the ground up with material selection. Prioritizing low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials, rapidly renewable resources, and products with sustainability certifications will aid in minimizing environmental impact. Materials such as FSC-certified wood, Cradle to Cradle-certified surfaces, and bio-based polymers reduce emissions while maintaining durability. It doesn’t stop there. Material selection goes beyond sustainability and into circular economy principles. This includes recyclable, reusable, and long-lasting materials that minimize waste and support closed-loop systems. Examples of products currently on the market include recycled steel for structural components and biocomposite countertops made from agricultural waste, which provide durability with lower embodied carbon. Repurposing and reusing materials in this manner is an efficient way to drive American manufacturing while propelling innovation in laboratory settings. Balancing Durability and Sustainability It isn’t necessary to forsake quality for sustainability as today’s high-performance materials can meet both sustainability and operational demands. Equipment such as refrigerators, fume hoods, and more have historically been huge energy drains that can overburden the lab. A simple switch to ENERGY STAR®-certified equipment, whose features include low-power modes and automatic shut offs, can make a huge difference in the long term reduction of costs even if upfront costs are higher. The lifecycle of these products also tend to be longer, affording better cost savings overall. When considering upgrades, seek out high-quality, long-lasting materials that: • Resist chemical exposure and withstand intensive use • Reduce replacement frequency to save time and money • Offer recyclability and reuse potential to maximize efficiency For example, stainless steel laboratory benches are low-cost and durable. Modular lab casework systems allow for easy reconfiguration without material waste. Similarly, high-pressure laminates and bio-based counter tops provide strength and sustainability. Sustainability does not have to come at the cost of durability. Prioritizing materials with long lifespans contributes to both cost savings and a lower environmental footprint. In fact, according to Tyler Marsden, Government Account Manager at Laboratory Builders, Inc. (LBI), Marsden is seeing “trends that include reducing waste, using energy-efficient equipment, and using better materials.” In terms of materials for labs looking to balance their budget with their ecological footprint, the steel casework that LBI offers “is manufactured from a minimum of 25% recycled steel with a chemical resistant, eco-friendly, VOC-free powder coat finish.” Also, LBI’s high-performance low volume hoods “provide ultimate safety while facilitating energy savings by exhausting less conditioned air from the building. These hoods also require less HVAC infrastructure and fewer controls,” says Marsden. DESIGNING FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY Optimizing Lab Layouts to Reduce Energy Demand Efficient and sustainable labs are more than the sum of their parts. While materials selection is the building block, the design is what enables sustainability, and therefore cost savings, throughout the lab. This has never been more important than now, as it has recently come to light that labs consume 5–10 times more energy per square foot than office buildings on average (DOE, 2022). Design is where the cost savings lie. For instance, studies have shown that replacing constant air volume (CAV) systems with demand-based HVAC controls can cut energy consumption by up to 50% (ASHRAE, 2021). Having an efficient lab layout and smart design choices can significantly reduce energy consumption, such as: • Optimized ventilation strategies to lower HVAC demand while maintaining safety • Implement “daylighting” and passive design elements to minimize reliance on artificial lighting where possible • Strategic fume hood placement to prevent unnecessary air exchanges 05 | How to Build Efficient Government Labs in 2025 | 04.25 Government Scientific Source • Solar photovoltaic panels to offset electricity use • Geothermal heating and cooling for consistent temperature control • Hydrogen fuel cells for backup power in missioncritical labs Additionally, smart energy management systems can dynamically adjust energy use based on real-time lab occupancy and equipment demand, further reducing the facility’s carbon footprint and cost to run. BUDGETING AND PROCUREMENT FOR SUSTAINABLE LABS MAXIMIZING EFFICIENCY WHILE STAYING ON BUDGET Leveraging Cost-Saving Strategies in Green Construction Improvements and efficiencies are often implemented with careful consideration to their financial terms. Whether you’re building a lab from scratch, retrofitting your current lab, or replacing instruments/equipment/ furniture as you go, it is clear that green initiatives and cost-effectiveness go hand in hand. A 2018 study comparing 100 U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) high-performance buildings versus 100 of its legacy buildings was staggering. The agency’s high-performance buildings were tasked with the following requirements: a.) reduce fossil-fuel generated energy consumption by 80% by 2020, b.) manage water rain events on-site, and c.) apply sustainable design principles to siting, design, construction, and more. According to the agency’s report, “The Impact of HighPerformance Building,” the facilities that implemented these measures enjoyed: • 23% lower energy use • 28% less water usage • 23% lower building operating expenses • 9% less waste landfilled Efficiency starts with strategic planning. Collaborate with architects and engineers who specialize in green design to avoid costly modifications down the line. Some strategic considerations to maximize cost effectiveness include: • Enlist energy modeling software to predict efficiency gains ahead of design and construction • Implement phased retrofits to spread costs over multiple budget cycles • Prioritize high-impact efficiency upgrades, such as LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, and highefficiency HVAC UTILIZING GOVERNMENT CONTRACT VEHICLES Strategic Procurement for Green Labs Government agencies can streamline the acquisition of sustainable lab equipment through contract vehicles such as GSA schedules, Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs), and Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts. These pre-approved procurement channels reduce administrative burden and ensure compliance with sustainability mandates, along with these benefits: • Volume discounts lower per-unit costs for energy-efficient lab equipment • Simplified acquisition procedures reduce procurement delays • Pre-vetted supplier contracts ensure compliance with federal environmental policies Using sustainable procurement frameworks, such as the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) program, helps ensure that every purchase aligns with federal sustainability goals. Government contract vehicles provide an efficient method for purchasing sustainable lab equipment and materials. By offering volume discounts and streamlining approval processes, contract vehicles make it easier to secure high-quality, sustainable products at competitive prices. Government labs can utilize these contract agreements to meet sustainability goals and accelerate project timelines, while maintaining budget discipline and operational efficiency. …IT IS CLEAR THAT GREEN INITIATIVES AND COST-EFFECTIVENESS GO HAND IN HAND. 06 | How to Build Efficient Government Labs in 2025 | 04.25 Government Scientific Source Government Scientific Source (GovSci) facilitates federal procurement ease and compliance by hosting thousands of name-brand products on a variety of procurement platforms, including GSA, ECAT, IntraMalls, and many more. GovSci, in partnership with Laboratory Builders, Inc., (LBI) are able to walk you through the entire process of your lab build from start to finish, while utilizing government contracts. Contact GovSci at www.govsci.com/contact to get started. CERTIFICATIONS AND COMPLIANCE Achieving Industry-Recognized Lab Certifications Certifications provide third-party verification to labs that meet sustainability benchmarks and signify a commitment to sustainability. Achieving these certifications enhances lab credibility, reduces operational costs, and future-proofs facilities against evolving regulations. Key programs include: • Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): Recognizes energy-efficient and low-carbon lab buildings through its green building certification system. (usgbc.org) • Sustainable Facilities Tool: Provides a host of resources on sustainable building principles, materials and systems. (sftool.gov) • My Green Lab Certification: Evaluates lab equipment and operational sustainability. (mygreenlab.org) • ISO 14001: Ensures compliance with environmental management standards. (iso.org) Sustainable procurement also prioritizes environmentally-friendly products that meet industry standards for safety and performance. Opt for ENERGY STAR®-rated equipment, biodegradable lab consumables, and water-efficient laboratory fixtures to reduce environmental impact. FUTURE-PROOFING GOVERNMENT LABS PLANNING FOR SCALABILITY AND ADAPTABILITY Flexible Infrastructure for Future Innovation Designing with future needs in mind ensures that sustainability efforts remain effective over time and allows labs to scale efficiently as demands evolve. By integrating smart building technologies and adaptive infrastructure, government labs can remain resilient, efficient, and cost-effective for decades to come. The future of government labs requires designs that adapt to evolving research needs while maintaining sustainability. Key strategies include: • Modular lab layouts that support reconfiguration without material waste • Interoperable digital systems for energy monitoring and automation • Designing for equipment lifecycle management to minimize long-term waste Investing in Long-Term Sustainability Measures With climate resilience, cost efficiency, and technological advancements driving the next generation of lab design, sustainable government labs will serve as blueprints for responsible, high-performance research environments. Investing in long-term sustainability measures ensures continued environmental and financial benefits. Future-proofing requires investment in high-efficiency systems that offer long-term savings, such as: • High-performance air filtration systems that reduce HVAC loads • Water recycling technologies that minimize consumption and waste • Predictive maintenance systems that optimize energy use and extend equipment lifespan Sustainable investments not only drive cost savings but also future-proof facilities against evolving regulatory requirements and technological advancements. A commitment to long-term sustainability ensures that labs remain adaptable, resilient, and capable of supporting critical research for years to come. 07 | How to Build Efficient Government Labs in 2025 | 04.25 Government Scientific Source GETTING STARTED TODAY TAKING THE NEXT STEPS TOWARD A SUSTAINABLE GOVERNMENT LAB Start today by researching and contacting sustainability consultants, government procurement specialists, and green building experts to start your green lab project on the right track. Government Scientific Source (GovSci) is a leading distributor of laboratory products and equipment to federal, state and local governments, as well as academic and commercial laboratories. With over 30 years of experience within the government marketplace, GovSci is prepared to make the procurement process as efficient as possible, while providing personalized, hassle-free service. GovSci is a one-stop shop offering a variety of lab products and services, including: • Millions of laboratory products from both major brands and specialty companies, supporting any laboratory needs ranging from consumables to specialized equipment • Extensive product coverage on contract vehicles such as GSA and ECAT, with exclusive government pricing and expedited procurement • Personalized customer service throughout your workflow • Next-day delivery at select locations If you are planning to build a new lab or retrofit your current space, GovSci’s New Lab Start-Up Program provides support and consultation every step of the way, from the initial design to making final product selections. Through this program and partnership with Laboratory Builders, Inc. (LBI), you can access 600 of the most commonly used lab furnishings, allowing you to customize your lab outfit specifically for your research needs. GovSci and LBI can help reduce start-up costs while ensuring product access, contract coverage, and procurement support. For more information or to discuss your needs and goals for a laboratory build-project, reach GovSci directly by completing the New Lab Start-Up Program online consultation form and a representative will be in contact. By taking these steps, you can ensure a smooth process in building a green and sustainable government lab that meets operational, financial, and environmental goals. Before You Reach Out: Your Checklist for Success ☐ Define sustainability goals and priorities ☐ Assess available budget and funding opportunities ☐ Identify potential certifications and regulatory requirements ☐ Research government contract vehicles for procurement ☐ Develop an initial project timeline and scope ABOUT US Since 1991, Government Scientific Source (GovSci) has been the leading small business distributor of laboratory supplies and equipment to U.S. federal, state, and local governments, as well as universities, commercial labs, and more. GovSci is a one-stop shop offering everything labs need, all in one convenient place, including: • 1M+ laboratory products from thousands of top-tier brands • 75+ dedicated sales and customer service members providing personalized support throughout your workflow • Contract access such as GSA Advantage and ECAT for preferred pricing supporting a multitude of government agencies • Made in USA products Our mission is to support government scientific research by delivering trusted laboratory solutions. We build long-term relationships with customers and suppliers, champion the growth and development of our people, and drive excellence through quality, compliance, and integrity. GovSci currently provides laboratory supplies to a wide range of agencies and their contractors including the VA, DoD, DOE, NNSA, EPA, NIH, FDA, CDC, NASA, USGS, NOAA, and all related federal R&D locations. We continuously expand and update our product offerings in response to demand and new developments. LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE Next-Day Delivery and warehouse storage available at select locations. CONTACT US • GSS-Sales@govsci.com • govsci.com/contact Reston Knoxville Albuquerque Española Livermore Sterling Headquarters Oce Locations Warehouse Locations HEADQUARTERS 12355 Sunrise Valley Dr. Suite 400 Reston, VA 20191 NEW MEXICO OFFICE AND WAREHOUSE 2701 Broadway Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87107 VIRGINIA WAREHOUSE 22501 Ladbrook Dr. Sterling, VA 20166 NORTHERN NEW MEXICO WAREHOUSE 434 South Riverside Dr. Española, NM 87532 TENNESSEE WAREHOUSE 10903 McBride LN Knoxville, TN 37932 CALIFORNIA WAREHOUSE 258 Lindbergh Avenue Livermore, CA 94551
