Category: Wet Labs
Level: Silver
Author: Schell B., Hermuth-Kleinschmidt K., Scagliotti V., Weber P., Freese T.
The Impact: <p>Experimentation & knowledge sharing, reduced risk of data loss</p>
Details
Proper data collection, management and sharing are essential for robust, transparent and resource-efficient science. Research groups can significantly reduce unnecessary repetition of experiments, and thereby reduce environmental impact, by documenting negative or inconclusive results, ensuring high-quality metadata, and applying the FAIR guiding principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable).
The most sustainable experiment is the one that does not need to be repeated.
By improving data stewardship and communication, research groups can prevent waste, streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and increase the reliability of their findings. Sharing lessons learned—including unsuccessful attempts or troubleshooting outcomes—helps others avoid repeating inefficient or wasteful work and fosters a culture of openness and continuous improvement.
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