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-70 is the new -80... a paradigm for sample storage

Samples in a lab can be stored in a variety of different ways.  One of the most common, and most energy-intensive, ways is in a -80 freezer.  But did you know that these freezers, also known as ultra-low freezers, do not need to be set to -80?  Nearly all samples will be fine at -70.  If you're worried you can always check with someone to verify the stability of the sample and the buffer.
If you're storing DNA or RNA in an ultra-low freezer consider storing them at -20 instead.  Nucleic acids do not need to be stored at ultra-low temperatures. 
Or, to make an even greater impact, if you are storing DNA or RNA, consider using an ambient temperature storage cabinet.  It is possible to store nucleic acids at room temperature provided you prepare the sample correctly.

For more information about sample storage please contact info@mygreenlab.org.