Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) does not have a complete understanding of the plastic waste being generated by laboratories, because no prior analyses have been completed on plastic waste generation by labs within WPI. Consequently, we cannot yet know if the amount of waste being generated is excessive or unnecessary. This study aims to provide an understanding of the waste generation and practices in WPI laboratories and develop appropriate solutions and recommendations for laboratory personnel. The project team surveyed laboratory personnel conducted visual analysis on the waste within laboratories and analyzed the amount of waste produced by laboratories through waste treatment invoices. The analyses provided information on single use plastics and the potential solutions that could be implemented to reduce waste.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Costa, David
• Robertson, Alan
• Fernandes Vicenzotto, Lucas

Subject

• Sustainability
• Community
• Industry
• Innovation
• Project-Based Learning
• Environment

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 54506
• E-project-032522-234635

Advisor

• Mathisen, Paul P.
• Manning, Amity L.

Year

• 2022

UN Sustainable Development Goals

• 3 - Good Health and Well-being
• 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation
• 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
• 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

Date created

• 2022-03-25

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright