University of Mosul Waste Management Policy, Including Hazardous Materials

University of Mosul Waste Management Policy, Including Hazardous Materials

1. Title

University of Mosul Waste Management Policy, Including Hazardous Materials

2. Purpose / Objective

This policy aims to establish a comprehensive framework for managing waste at the University of Mosul in safe and sustainable ways, ensuring the protection of both the environment and the health of individuals within and beyond the campus. It also seeks to ensure the proper disposal of hazardous materials generated from research, educational, and healthcare activities, in full compliance with national and international best practices in waste management.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all University activities that generate waste, including:

  • General (non-hazardous) waste.

  • Recyclable waste (paper, plastics, glass, metals).

  • Hazardous waste (chemical, biological, medical) originating from laboratories, research centers, and healthcare facilities.

4. Principles / Commitments

  • Safety First: ensuring the protection of students, staff, and workers through strict preventive measures.

  • Environmental Sustainability: adopting practices that minimize the environmental impact of waste and encourage recycling.

  • Transparency: documenting all stages of waste management and publishing periodic reports on compliance levels.

  • Collaboration: working with local and international authorities to ensure best practices in waste disposal.

5. Procedures / Implementation Mechanisms

  • Waste Classification:

    • Separating non-hazardous and recyclable waste.

    • Identifying and classifying hazardous waste according to type (chemical, biological, medical).

  • Safe Storage:

    • Using sealed, clearly labeled containers for hazardous materials.

    • Designating secure, restricted areas for temporary storage, separate from daily operations.

  • Safe Disposal:

    • Contracting licensed and specialized companies for hazardous waste handling.

    • Applying environmentally safe methods such as controlled incineration or chemical neutralization.

  • Preventive Measures:

    • Providing personnel with personal protective equipment (PPE).

    • Conducting regular training on safety procedures and emergency response.

6. Responsibilities

  • University Presidency: overall supervision and assurance of policy implementation.

  • Maintenance and Services Division / Administrative Affairs Department: direct execution of waste collection, classification, and transportation.

  • Colleges and Laboratories: proper classification of hazardous waste before transferring it to the service units.

  • Waste Management Staff: strict adherence to safety protocols and ensuring secure implementation of all procedures.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation

  • Establishing a tracking system to monitor waste from generation to final disposal.

  • Issuing semi-annual reports to assess system efficiency and identify areas for improvement.

  • Conducting periodic environmental audits to verify compliance with standards and updating procedures when necessary.

8. Periodic Review

This policy will be reviewed at least every two years, or when new legal or technical developments arise, to ensure alignment with the latest standards and global best practices.

9. Link to Global Goals

  • Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by reducing the health risks associated with waste.

  • Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, by preventing pollution caused by improper waste disposal.

  • Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by promoting recycling and sustainable waste management.

  • Goal 13: Climate Action, by minimizing emissions resulting from improper waste practices.

  • Goal 15: Life on Land, by protecting soil and ecosystems from chemical pollution.

Approved by: Presidency of the University of Mosul.

Last updated: 24-12-2024.