Recycling
In 2009, MSD reviewed its recycling practices for paper, cardboard, wood pallets, computers, ink and toner cartridges, aluminum cans, plastic, glass, oil, metal, yard waste, and batteries. We found that paper is the only material that we recycle consistently, at an estimated rate of 20 percent of total paper waste. All other materials such as ink and toner cartridges were either thrown in the trash or were sporadically recycled. Our current practices leave plenty of room for improvement, and we plan to establish formal targets and change practices throughout the organization to improve our performance.
Simple Changes Make a Big Difference
Since the mid nineties, MSD’s Industrial Division has investigated and implemented analytical methods and procedures to minimize sample and reagent use, thereby reducing the amounts of chemicals and disposables used for testing. In 2009, we purchased automatic samplers for several instruments and a flow injection analyzer for the analysis of nutrients.
As a result, the overall generation of laboratory wastes and the related disposal costs have decreased significantly. For example, in 2009, no chemical waste removal was needed. Price quotes received in 2010 for removal of wastes accumulated over the 2-year period were halved, although the number of analyses remained the same or increased.