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Establish a Laboratory Chemicals Repository

Establish a Laboratory Chemicals Repository
Sustainability Commitment
Waste Reduction
Initiative ID
3.7

This initiative proposes to reduce chemical waste and associated greenhouse gas emissions at the University of Arizona by establishing a centralized chemicals list and repository. It will minimize waste generated in research departments by designating storage hubs for surplus or incoming chemicals to prevent duplicate orders and promote resource sharing between departments. Actionable items will include:

  • Create a centralized chemicals list and repository detailing the inventory and locations of all chemicals used on the main campus, including NFPA classifications for safety compliance.
  • Designate central storage locations where researchers can donate unused chemicals or acquire needed ones, aiming to minimize waste, reduce duplicative orders, and enhance chemical safety practices.
  • Provide comprehensive training sessions for university researchers on how to effectively utilize the centralized chemicals list and repository, ensuring accessibility and promoting sustainable chemical management practices.
  • Communicate clearly about the purpose, benefits, and location of the centralized chemicals list and repository to all researchers, ensuring information accessibility for diverse linguistic and learning needs.
  • Plan for future expansion of the centralized repository model to include additional resources and supplies, such as glassware, to further reduce waste and promote sustainable inventory management practices across the university.

Documentation

This initiative was drafted by the
Research Working Group