[SCAN] Residual Residues? Not really

Speaker: Carina Valente & Helena Matias

Abstract: Single-use plastics are commonly used in scientific research due to their convenience and affordability. However, there is a growing awareness of the environmental impact of single-use plastics, including their contribution to pollution and the accumulation of plastic waste. As a result, there has been increasing concern within the scientific community to reduce or find alternatives to single-use plastics in research.

Having this in mind, a study was conducted at ITQB NOVA to document the baseline levels of single-use plastic and other common valuable residues generated in the laboratory. The data of such study will help to implement several strategies to achieve a sustainable reduction and possible reuse of lab materials.

But waste is not limited to just plastic and originates from various areas and sectors in different forms as a result of human activities. Some of our waste can still hold value as recyclable materials for the production of new items. In collaboration with the cleaning team, a comprehensive study was undertaken at ITQB NOVA over a period of five weeks to assess and record the initial levels of waste generated on campus. The data collected will serve as a foundation for future initiatives aimed at transforming ITQB NOVA into a Zero Waste campus.

In this seminar the results of both studies will be presented to the ITQB NOVA community to encourage all of us all towards more sustainable and environmentally responsible practices.