Pollution Prevention Initiatives

• Introduction
• Chemical and Other Regulated Waste In Laboratories
• Mercury Reduction
• Underground and Aboveground Storage Tanks
• Recreational Activities
• Office Operations
• Maintenance Activities
• Lion Surplus
• Property Acquisition and Use
• Non-Laboratory Chemical Use Areas
• Reduction of Impacts of Hazardous Materials Releases

Office Operations

One of the most common office-related activities that provide opportunities for pollution prevention is the use of a variety of batteries. There are six types of batteries commonly found on University campuses, three of which contain hazardous materials and must be managed accordingly, including mercury and nickel cadmium. Improper disposal could lead to the introduction of these materials into the environment. Each of these batteries are collected through the University's Hazardous Waste Management Program and recycled by our waste vendor. Since 2002, EHS has recycled over 15,295 pounds of lead acid batteries and 1,723 pounds of nickel cadmium batteries.

Hazardous chemicals that can also be found in office environments are cleaning products such as Dirtex. Waste electrical equipment may contain hazardous materials. Sharps such as razor blades, needles and syringes may also be used in office environments. EHS staff provide ongoing education of the University community to properly dispose of these materials.

The disposal of University-owned computers and equipment that may contain hazardous materials, such as CRTs are recycled through Lion Surplus to avoid the disposal and environmental impacts of the hazardous materials they contain.