Development of a University Laboratory Chemical Inventory and Exchange Program

Abstract

Because of the transient nature of research personnel and projects in the university environment, academic research laboratories are sources of a large quantity of hazardous waste on campuses. As a result, universities are seeking to establish programs to encourage minimization of waste. This paper reports the results of an initiative to assess the feasibility and development of a full-scale chemical inventory and exchange (CIE) program at the University of Florida (UF) for reuse of surplus chemicals that would normally accumulate in the laboratories before their ultimate disposal. By tracking the flow of research chemicals through representative research laboratories, it was determined that the amount of surplus chemicals available for exchange in UF laboratories would support a CIE program and potentially yield positive environmental impacts. After several months of operation, the UF Chem Swap Program, a user-friendly web-based mechanism for maintenance of complete on-line chemical inventories and designation of available chemicals, has resulted in significant exchanged material and has become a successful method to heighten the need for safety and pollution prevention awareness and thoughtful purchasing practices.