The University of Minnesota has a nationally recognized program for management of hazardous wastes. Benchmark studies indicate that based on square foot of facilities or the amount of research funding, the University captures a remarkable amount of waste generated. Our waste facilities, training resources and guidance documents are second to none.
Many institutions use the U of MN as the model for their own programs.
We have developed a culture of responsible chemical management throughout the University. It is common for our users of chemicals to monitor their usage closely and they regularly supply us with very detailed information about the chemicals that they no longer need. Each year, we receive a significant number of requests to dispose of containers from chemical users who are not sure of the contents. Proper disposal of UCOs requires that we first test the chemicals and then arrange for costly disposal of these items. In a typical year, this takes up 1,000 hours of technicians' time for testing and the disposal cost of UCOs can be many times higher than that of identified wastes.