Last edited 24 Aug 2022

Container laboratory helping slow climate change

1 Background
2 The challenge
3 The solution
4 The team
5 Comment
6 External links
7 Related articles on Designing Buildings

[edit] Background

Research shows that there is more carbon dioxide in the Earth’s atmosphere than ever before in human history. Enhanced weathering removal, based on the natural weathering of rocks is being used to tackling the detrimental effects of climate change.

A fully containerised laboratory space was needed to enable the team to expand their research capabilities on site.

The pioneering carbon dioxide removal process is achieved using innovative, nature-based technologies alongside cutting-edge, scientific research, such as enhanced weathering models that use rocks to absorb carbon. This nature-based technology is safe, effective, and beneficial to the environment.

[edit] The challenge

In order to carry out soil tests at a forest site in Fauldhouse, Scotland, two bespoke laboratories were needed to enable the team to conduct field research on the applications of basalt rock and its interactions with soil. This research is fundamental to the understanding of both these carbon removal technologies in a real-world environment.

With this in mind, a fully containerised solution that could be easily transported between different forest sites for a variety of sustainable research projects was needed.

[edit] The solution

Two 20ft shipping containers were converted into transportable research laboratories for use in the field.

Both container units were fitted with lighting and electrical points, and finished with white melamine wall linings, sealed with a cap and coved floor, to provide a flush and easy clean surface.

The converted containers included plenty of built-in storage for lab equipment, plus a sink with water heater so cleaning could be done effectively. An AC unit was also fitted to help maintain a regular temperature inside the containers so the research teams would have a comfortable working environment.

One of the new container laboratories was required for testing soil samples for metal. Because of this, the container in question could not have any metal materials used in its design as it could contaminate samples, so the conversions team used wood and plastic fixtures to ensure the customer’s brief was met.

[edit] The team

UNDO, a sister company to The Future Forest Company, are fighting climate change by developing processes that reverse climate change and maximise the amount of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere. Their goal is to be the first company to remove 1 million tons of CO2, and remove a billion tonnes from our atmosphere by 2030.

The company also partner with local agricultural communities, work with companies to meet net zero commitments, and help individuals who want to make a difference using high-quality carbon credits. S.Jones Containers were responsible for converting two 20ft shipping containers into transportable research laboratories for use in the field.

[edit] Comment

Rob Palmer, Head of Emerging Technology at UNDO, said: “To enable the work at UNDO to be scalable, it seemed like a natural choice to opt for containerised laboratories that could move around the country to whichever site we need it. As well as conducting our own research, we fund other environmental research projects so having a lab space that is portable means we can provide resources for third party teams to conduct their research too.

“Working with S Jones Containers on this project was a pleasure. The conversions team were enthusiastic about the project, and took the time to understand our specific needs for the units, such as a metal free interior for one lab. They were flexible to our requests and produced two functional lab spaces for our team to carry out vital sustainability testing for years to come.”

Andrew Capella, Conversions General Manager at S Jones Containers, said: “Converted shipping containers are well suited for remote scientific projects and industrial facilities. Not only do they offer flexibility in regards to design, but they are sturdy and can be transported between sites. A bricks and mortar building doesn’t offer much in the way of flexibility, and it certainly can’t be moved around, so containerising a lab makes perfect sense for researchers out in the field.

“It’s great to see the work that UNDO does to help save the planet, and the S Jones conversions team are proud to have been able to contribute to its research efforts with our bespoke container laboratories.”

[edit] External links

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Container laboratories can play a significant role in addressing climate change by facilitating research, monitoring, and testing related to climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. Here are some ways container laboratories can contribute to slowing climate change:

1. Research and Development: Container laboratories can serve as mobile research facilities, allowing scientists and researchers to conduct studies and experiments related to climate change. They can be equipped with specialized equipment to analyze air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, soil composition, and other environmental factors. This research helps in understanding climate change processes, developing innovative solutions, and monitoring the effectiveness of mitigation strategies.

2. Monitoring and Data Collection: Container laboratories can be deployed to remote or vulnerable areas to monitor environmental conditions and collect critical data. For example, they can be used to measure changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, sea levels, and carbon dioxide concentrations. Accurate and comprehensive data collection helps in assessing the impact of climate change, identifying trends, and informing evidence-based policies and interventions.

3. Renewable Energy Testing: Container laboratories can be utilized to test and develop renewable energy technologies. They can be equipped with solar panels, wind turbines, or other energy generation systems to analyze their performance, efficiency, and potential integration into the existing energy infrastructure. Testing and optimizing renewable energy solutions are crucial for transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Climate Adaptation Strategies: Container laboratories can support the development and implementation of climate adaptation strategies. They can be used to test the resilience of different building materials, agricultural practices, and infrastructure designs in the face of changing climate conditions. By studying the impacts of climate change on various sectors, container laboratories can help identify and implement measures to adapt and protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems.

5. Education and Awareness: Container laboratories can serve as educational tools to raise awareness about climate change and promote sustainable practices. They can be deployed to schools, community centers, or public events to engage the public, showcase climate research, and provide interactive learning experiences. By fostering environmental literacy and understanding, container laboratories can inspire individuals to take action and contribute to mitigating climate change.

Container laboratories offer flexibility, mobility, and cost-effectiveness, making them valuable assets in climate change research and response efforts. They facilitate scientific inquiry, data collection, innovation, and community engagement, ultimately supporting the global transition towards a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.