CHEMICAL WASTE MANAGEMENT IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN THE AMAZON: A CASE STUDY OF THE INSTITUTE OF WATER SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY AT UFOPA

Abstract

Teaching, research, and outreach activities carried out in the laboratories of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) produce chemical waste, which is sometimes hazardous. Managing this waste is a challenge faced by the scientific community and HEI administrators. This research sought to develop a diagnosis of the management of chemical waste produced in the laboratories of the Institute of Water Sciences and Technology (ICTA) at the Federal University of Western Pará (Ufopa). The methodology adopted was a mixed-method analysis, utilizing information ranging from the generation to the final disposal of chemical waste. Among the laboratory supervisors who responded to the questionnaire, 93.7% mentioned that they produce chemical waste, and 68.8% of them send this waste to environmentally appropriate disposal channels provided by the university itself. It was evident that there is still a certain lack of knowledge among laboratory staff regarding the protocols already provided by Ufopa for waste management. However, an increase in the availability of and staff participation in training sessions focused on laboratory activities was observed. The results showed an improvement in chemical waste management, although there is still a need to advance protocols to ensure good laboratory practices, sustainability, and safety in activities.