EPFL has released an open source CO2 calculator that gives research labs a detailed breakdown of their emissions. Labs typically use three to ten times more energy than offices, but standard carbon accounting tools don't fit their mix of equipment, travel, chemicals, and building use. The calculator pulls in data like floor area, purchases, and electricity use automatically, so researchers only enter trip and specialty inputs. The tool is based on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and includes two extras: a project planner for estimating a research proposal's footprint and an explorer for comparing specific actions like a flight or equipment purchase. Early pilot data helped one lab show that a space heater was a major emitter, supporting its case for building upgrades. EPFL is sharing the code so other universities can adapt it to their own systems. Researchers should remember the results are estimates, especially for specialized instruments and chemicals where spend-based factors are used. But for decisions about travel, equipment, and building efficiency, the tool gives labs a concrete starting point and a way to track progress year over year.
