Toward Zero Waste – A Study In Reducing And Managing Lab Waste

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2021-08
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Abstract
The linear waste management model (take-make-dispose) has led to consumption and production patterns that exceed Earth’s sustainable capacity. Zero Waste philosophies emphasize the reduction of raw material usage, retention of value in manufactured products, and align with UNSDG 12 ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’. The University of Calgary’s Zero Waste strategic plan aims to create a Zero Waste campus by 2030. One key challenge is addressing the high volume of non-hazardous lab waste, including unrecycled glass and plastic, discarded lab equipment, and contaminated mixed recycling. Qualitative methodologies, including an electronic survey, are used to create a best-practice guide for implementing sustainable lab activities. Behaviour change barriers related to cost and effort are discussed related to voluntary adoption of environmental behaviour through education, clear communication, commendations, and increased waste diversion options. Staged implementation can potentially offer quantitative metrics to measure future impacts of implementing sustainable lab activities.
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Citation
Choi, G. (2021). Toward Zero Waste – A Study In Reducing And Managing Lab Waste (Unpublished master's project). University of Calgary, Calgary, AB.