Implementation of an Integrated Hazardous Waste Management Program at a Public University in Mexico

Hazardous waste (HW) generated in university laboratories poses significant health and environmental risks when national regulations are not fully observed. To address this issue, a comprehensive HW management program was implemented with the active participation of university authorities, academic staff, service personnel, and students. During the assessment phase, 242 HW items were identified, of which 14.4% were classified as unknown substances; the oldest samples dated back to 1998. Approximately 12% of the materials were discarded without being used. In total, 211.6 L of HW and 71.6 kg of solid HW were documented. Consequently, the university was formally registered as a microgenerator of HW with SEMARNAT (Secretaría del Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales/Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources, Mexico). In addition, a manual for integrated HW management was developed, and specific recommendations were provided. As a result of the program, HW was inventoried, stored, and disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements, thereby reducing potential risks to human health and the environment. This program not only ensured regulatory compliance but also established a sustainable framework for safe laboratory practices within the academic environment.