Report on Current and Future Usage of Helium – Sustainability and Costs
It reframes helium from a technical supply issue into a strategic sustainability question.
What it is
A report examining the sustainability, costs, and broader environmental implications of current and future helium use in research infrastructures.
What it does
The report looks beyond direct energy use and explores the wider environmental footprint of helium, including supply, losses, and the concept of “green helium.”
Main topics
- Helium use in RI operations
- Environmental footprint of liquid helium
- Comparison with previous studies such as CERN’s work
- Data from high-field laboratories in Grenoble and Toulouse
- Emerging insights from suppliers, including green helium initiatives
Why it matters
Helium is a critical resource for many scientific infrastructures, but its sustainability implications are broader than often assumed. Better understanding supports more responsible use and long-term planning.
Who can benefit
- RI senior management
- Facility managers
- Policy-makers
- Helium suppliers
- Scientific and technical communities working with cryogenics
Format
Report aligned with CNRS priority action on helium.
Why this is useful
It supports better strategic decisions on resource use, sustainability planning, and awareness raising across both expert and public audiences. If your organisation depends on helium, use this report to review current practices and prepare for more sustainable and resilient future use.
