Policy on Hazardous Waste Disposal and Management
Universitas Mataram (UNRAM) recognizes that the improper handling and disposal of hazardous materials can pose significant risks to human health, ecosystems, and natural resources. As part of its commitment to sustainable campus operations, the university has established policies and procedures for the safe management of hazardous waste generated from laboratories, research activities, healthcare services, maintenance operations, and other campus facilities.
This policy supports SDG Target 12.2.3, which calls for the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle to minimize adverse impacts on human health and the environment.
Policy Framework
UNRAM implements a hazardous waste management policy that governs the identification, segregation, storage, collection, transportation, treatment, and final disposal of hazardous materials generated across the university.
The policy requires all academic units, laboratories, and operational facilities to:
- Identify and classify hazardous waste according to its characteristics and risks;
- Segregate hazardous materials from general waste streams;
- Store hazardous waste in designated and secure containment facilities;
- Maintain proper labeling and documentation of hazardous materials;
- Ensure that hazardous waste is handled only by trained personnel;
- Comply with national environmental regulations governing hazardous waste management; and
- Transfer hazardous waste to licensed treatment and disposal facilities for environmentally sound management.
Through these measures, UNRAM seeks to prevent contamination of soil, water, and air while protecting the health and safety of students, staff, researchers, and surrounding communities.
Hazardous Waste Management System
The university adopts a life-cycle approach to hazardous waste management, ensuring that hazardous materials are controlled from the point of generation to final disposal.
Key components of the system include:
- Waste Identification and Segregation
Hazardous waste is separated according to its physical, chemical, biological, or toxic properties to prevent cross-contamination and facilitate appropriate treatment. - Safe Storage
Hazardous materials are stored in designated facilities equipped with appropriate containment systems and safety measures to minimize environmental and occupational risks. - Collection and Transportation
Hazardous waste is collected and transferred using established procedures that prevent spills, leaks, and accidental exposure. - Treatment and Disposal
Waste is treated, recovered, or disposed of through authorized facilities in accordance with environmental regulations and best practices. - Monitoring and Documentation
Records are maintained to ensure traceability, accountability, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Capacity Building and Awareness
Recognizing that effective hazardous waste management depends on responsible handling practices, UNRAM promotes awareness and capacity-building programs for laboratory personnel, researchers, students, and operational staff. These activities focus on:
- Hazard identification and risk assessment;
- Safe handling of chemicals and hazardous substances;
- Emergency response procedures;
- Waste segregation and labeling practices; and
- Environmental and occupational safety responsibilities.
Through regular training and awareness programs, the university strengthens its institutional capacity to manage hazardous materials safely and responsibly.
Monitoring and Performance Indicators
To evaluate the effectiveness of its hazardous waste management system, UNRAM monitors several key indicators:
- Quantity of hazardous waste generated annually (kg/year);
- Percentage of hazardous waste properly segregated at source;
- Percentage of hazardous waste transferred to licensed treatment facilities;
- Number of laboratories and units complying with hazardous waste management procedures;
- Number of personnel trained in hazardous waste handling;
- Number of hazardous waste incidents, spills, or non-compliance cases;
- Frequency of hazardous waste audits and inspections; and
- Percentage of hazardous waste records maintained and documented according to regulatory requirements.
Contribution to Sustainable Resource Management
Proper hazardous waste management is a critical component of sustainable resource use and environmental protection. By ensuring that hazardous materials are safely handled, treated, and disposed of, UNRAM minimizes environmental contamination and reduces risks to human health. The policy also promotes responsible consumption and production practices by encouraging users of hazardous substances to minimize waste generation and adopt safer alternatives whenever feasible.
SDG Impact
Through its hazardous waste management policy, UNRAM demonstrates its commitment to the environmentally sound management of chemicals and hazardous materials throughout their life cycle. The university’s approach protects natural resources, safeguards campus and community health, and supports compliance with environmental regulations. These efforts contribute directly to SDG Target 12.2.3, ensuring that hazardous waste is managed responsibly and that adverse impacts on people and the environment are minimized.