How Net-Zero mandates are making ultra-low energy consumption a non-negotiable factor in the procurement of Microbiological Safety Cabinets (MSCs) and Fume Cupboards

Laboratories are among the most energy-intensive spaces in modern buildings. High air-change rates, around the clock operation and safety-driven ventilation demand mean that a laboratory can consume significantly more energy than a typical office.

As universities, pharmaceutical companies and research institutions are tasked with working toward net-zero carbon targets, laboratory infrastructure is under unprecedented scrutiny. In this new reality, ultra-low energy consumption is no longer a desirable bonus, it is a fundamental requirement in the procurement of Microbiological Safety Cabinets (MSCs) and chemical fume cupboards.

MSCs and fume cupboards are safety-critical, but they are also among the biggest energy drivers in a laboratory. Fume cupboards, in particular, directly dictate how much conditioned air is extracted from the room and replaced by the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. As such, a single constant air volume (CAV) fume cupboard can consume considerable energy. Multiply that across an entire facility and the carbon impact becomes unavoidable. Add MSCs and you have created a second layer of energy demand, through their fan motors, HEPA filtration, airflow control systems and long periods of operation. With net-zero deadlines approaching, teams involved in purchasing decisions are now required to evaluate equipment not only on performance and compliance, but also on documented energy efficiency and whole-life carbon impact.

The shift toward sustainability is being driven by several technical innovations. Variable air volume (VAV) control is one of the most significant for fume cupboards. By automatically reducing airflow when the sash is lowered, VAV systems can cut fume cupboard energy demand compared with traditional CAV designs.

In MSCs, energy efficiency is being delivered through optimised airflow aerodynamics, low-pressure-drop HEPA filters and intelligent control systems that reduce power draw during standby or night modes. LED lighting and more efficient electronics further reduce base loads without compromising visibility or safety.

What decision makers now need to ask

Net-zero procurement requires a new level of technical interrogation. Buyers increasingly demand verifiable data on annual energy consumption, fan power ratings, filter pressure losses, and expected HVAC impact. It is no longer sufficient to specify “compliant MSC” or “standard fume cupboard.” Sustainability-led tenders now routinely include more in-depth questioning, such as what are the EC fan and motor requirements, does the equipment have VAV capability or airflow reduction strategies built-in, are there smart controls or standby modes when not in use, does the manufacturer supply lifecycle energy modelling or carbon calculations and what are the Serviceability, and end-of-life disposal considerations?

Manufacturers should be responding by providing detailed performance specifications, working closely with designers and facilities teams to model real-world energy use rather than relying on nominal laboratory conditions.

Designing for safety and sustainability

Biopharma Group is the authorised mainland UK distributor for Italian manufacturer Faster s.r.l. which has positioned sustainability as a core design principle across both its MSC and fume cupboard portfolios. Its SafeFAST range of Class I, II and III MSCs is engineered to combine high containment performance with low power consumption through leading fan technology, advanced airflow control and optimised filtration design. These features enable continuous safe operation with significantly reduced electrical demand over the cabinet’s lifetime.

On the chemical containment side, Faster’s fume cupboard portfolio includes total-exhaust, recirculating and hybrid solutions available in both CAV and VAV configurations. By offering VAV-ready designs alongside precision airflow monitoring, Faster models support laboratories that are actively targeting HVAC energy reduction without compromising operator protection. Recirculating models further reduce energy demand in applications where ducted exhaust is not required.

Crucially, Biopharma Group and Faster can also support bespoke configurations, allowing designers to match containment solutions precisely to the application, another key sustainability principle that avoids over-engineering and unnecessary

From Compliance to Competitive Advantage

As net-zero commitments become embedded in capital planning and regulatory frameworks, ultra-low energy laboratory containment is shifting from innovation to expectation. The most forward-looking institutions now view sustainable MSCs and VAV-enabled fume cupboards not as cost premiums, but as long-term risk mitigators, protecting both operational budgets and environmental targets.

The sustainable laboratory is no longer a future concept. It is becoming today’s procurement standard. Manufacturers that integrate safety, performance and energy efficiency from the ground up are setting the benchmark for the next generation of laboratory infrastructure.

At Biopharma Group, we pride ourselves on our expertise in airflow technology. Our close partnership with Faster s.r.l. makes us ideally placed to provide reliable advice and solutions, no matter the complexity of the task at hand. Our commitment extends to helping you make informed decisions and achieve success across projects.

For more information and to explore the range of sustainable airflow equipment and containment solutions manufactured by Faster s.r.l., contact us to discuss your requirements.