The University of Georgia (UGA) faces inadequate waste diversion practices despite the presence of trash and recycling bins across campus. Particularly concerning is the exclusion of research laboratory materials from UGA's single-stream recycling program. This study endeavors to devise a standardized recycling strategy tailored to laboratory materials for widespread adoption at UGA. Conducting a waste audit at UGA's Complex Carbohydrate Research Center (CCRC) and the Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM) allowed quantification of potential waste diversion, focusing on single-stream, film plastic, expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, ice packs, compost, and small #2 and #5 lab plastics. The study extrapolates potential waste diversion outcomes across UGA's laboratory facilities. A life cycle assessment (LCA) framework was established for the production of #2 and #5 plastics from virgin material through different methods of disposal and recycling processes, to be used in the future when data becomes available. Ultimately, this study aims to advance global sustainability efforts by influencing laboratory waste diversion strategies and promoting environmentally responsible practices.
