Sustainable AASTMT

[3.13]Total volume toxic waste produced this year

Description:

AASTMT implements a comprehensive hazardous waste management system covering chemical, biological, medical, laboratory, and electronic waste generated across its campuses, laboratories, clinics, and research facilities. Hazardous waste is segregated at the source and classified according to its type to ensure safe handling, storage, transportation, treatment, and final disposal.

Chemical waste is stored in designated secure containers and handled according to strict laboratory safety procedures. Biological waste generated from microbiology and biotechnology laboratories is sterilized through autoclaving before disposal. Medical waste from clinics and healthcare facilities is collected separately and managed according to environmental and health regulations.

AASTMT collaborates with certified waste-management companies, including Nahdet Misr, for the collection, transportation, treatment, and environmentally responsible disposal of hazardous materials. The Academy continuously monitors hazardous waste activities, conducts awareness programs, and provides training sessions for students, researchers, laboratory personnel, and staff members to minimize environmental risks and support sustainable campus operations.

Toxic Waste Generation Data

The table below presents the total volume of toxic waste produced during the current reporting period, with comparative data from the previous year:

Waste Categories and Management

• Electronic Waste (E-waste)

Electronic waste, including obsolete computers, laboratory devices, and electronic components, is collected separately and transferred to certified recycling facilities. During the reporting period, e-waste generation decreased slightly from 0.51 tons to 0.50 tons, reflecting efforts to extend the useful life of electronic equipment through maintenance, repair, and responsible replacement practices.

AASTMT organizes e-waste collection drives and disposal campaigns, ensuring that electronic waste is properly managed and valuable materials are recovered for reuse. The Academy's Consumption and Recycling Policy provides clear guidelines for handling, storing, and disposing of hazardous materials in alignment with national and international safety standards.

• Laboratory Chemical Waste

Laboratory chemical waste is segregated according to its hazard classification and handled by authorized waste management contractors. The College of Pharmacy at AASTMT is reinforcing its commitment to environmental safety with a waste disposal initiative in its laboratories. Liquid chemical waste is collected in designated bottles within each lab and then transferred to larger containers for safe handling and subsequent disposal.

Chemical waste is stored in designated secure cabinets, such as those for flammable materials, with strict enforcement both before and after use to mitigate risks, protect human health, and prevent environmental contamination. Students are instructed to perform all reactions that emit fumes, including volatile or hazardous compounds, within a fume hood to effectively vent harmful vapors and reinforce environmentally responsible lab practices.

During the reporting period, laboratory chemical waste decreased from 1.89 tons to 1.70 tons, reflecting improvements in chemical inventory management, optimization of laboratory practices, and a commitment to reducing hazardous waste generation through sustainable laboratory practices.

• Medical and Biological Waste

Biological waste generated from microbiology and biotechnology laboratories is sterilized through autoclaving before disposal, effectively neutralizing pathogens and reducing contamination risks. Clinical labs and medical facilities on AASTMT campuses follow strict procedures for hazardous biological waste, including medical waste like used syringes, swabs, and other contaminated materials. This waste is initially sterilized as needed, then stored in biohazard-safe containers and managed through certified disposal services.

AASTMT has established a comprehensive policy framework for hazardous waste disposal that provides clear guidelines for handling, storing, and disposing of toxic materials in alignment with national and international safety standards.

• Waste Treatment and Disposal

AASTMT manages toxic waste through established procedures for the collection, storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials. The majority of toxic waste is treated through specialized recycling and recovery processes, minimizing environmental impacts and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

Treatment Methods:

• Autoclaving: Biological waste is sterilized using autoclaves to neutralize pathogens
• Chemical Neutralization: Liquid chemical waste is neutralized where possible before disposal
• Incineration with Energy Recovery: Selected hazardous waste types are incinerated with energy recovery where appropriate
• Certified Landfill Disposal: Minimal residual hazardous waste is sent to certified sanitary landfills
• Partnership with Nahdet Misr:

AASTMT collaborates with Nahdet Misr, an accredited waste disposal national company, for the collection and safe disposal of hazardous materials. All waste is ultimately handed over to Nahdet Misr Company, a certified provider, to ensure environmentally responsible disposal. Hazardous waste handover is supervised by AASTMT staff members to verify safe containment and proper documentation, guaranteeing secure transport and disposal.

Monitoring and Reduction Strategies

AASTMT continuously tracks and measures waste generation across campuses as part of its waste management strategy. The Academy aims to:

• Achieve a Zero-Waste Campus by 2049
• Reduce total waste generation by 15% before 2030
• Expand recycling infrastructure and innovative waste-management solutions across all branches
• Minimize hazardous waste generation through sustainable laboratory practices and environmentally responsible resource use

Waste Tracking System:

AASTMT has established a waste monitoring and tracking system to assess waste quantities, recycling performance, and sustainability progress. According to university reports, approximately 3.78 metric tons of waste were recycled during 2023–2024.

Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals

AASTMT's toxic waste management programs contribute to multiple SDGs:

Additional Evidence Links