Waste Disposal Policy

 Executive Summary

Navoi State University (NSU) is committed to the responsible and sustainable management of waste and hazardous materials across all its facilities. This policy establishes a comprehensive framework that ensures all forms of waste—solid, liquid, chemical, and electronic—are handled safely, efficiently, and in accordance with international environmental standards and national legislation.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), the policy promotes waste reduction, recycling, and safe disposal, while fostering a culture of environmental awareness among students, faculty, and staff. NSU recognizes that proper waste management contributes not only to environmental protection but also to the health, safety, and sustainability of the campus community.

Key objectives include:
– Reducing waste generation through prevention, minimization, and recycling.
– Implementing environmentally sound management of hazardous materials.
– Ensuring compliance with environmental and safety laws.
– Promoting awareness and training on responsible waste practices.

1. Introduction

As part of its sustainability mission, NSU is dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of its operations. Waste generated from teaching, research, laboratories, and maintenance activities must be handled responsibly. This policy outlines the standards and responsibilities required for effective waste management and hazardous material control on campus.

2. Policy Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish consistent, environmentally responsible procedures for managing all types of waste—including hazardous waste—generated within NSU. It ensures compliance with Uzbekistan’s environmental protection laws and global best practices.

3. Policy Scope

This policy applies to all NSU departments, laboratories, research centers, student dormitories, and contracted service providers handling waste materials or hazardous substances. It includes solid waste, chemical and laboratory waste, medical waste, and electronic waste (e-waste).

4. Guiding Principles

• Sustainability: Reduce waste at the source and promote circular economy.

  • Accountability: Define clear responsibilities for waste management.

  • Safety: Ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials.

  • Compliance: Follow national and international waste management standards.

  • Transparency: Maintain open reporting and documentation of waste processes.

5. Strategic Objectives

1. Implement waste segregation at source in all facilities.

   2. Develop partnerships with certified recycling and waste disposal agencies.

   3. Ensure hazardous waste is safely stored and disposed of in compliance with law.

   4. Integrate sustainability education into staff and student training programs.

   5. Reduce overall campus waste generation by 40% by 2030.

6. Implementation Framework

The NSU Sustainability Committee, together with the Facilities and Safety Departments, oversees policy execution. Each department must designate a Waste Management Officer responsible for coordination, monitoring, and compliance.

6.1 Governance Structure

7. Waste Classification and Disposal Process

Waste materials at NSU are categorized for safe and efficient handling and disposal. The table below outlines main categories and their disposal methods.

8. Monitoring and Reporting

Performance will be monitored annually through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to ensure accountability and transparency.

9. Financial Considerations

Funds for waste management initiatives will be allocated under the NSU Sustainability and Infrastructure budgets. Partnerships with local recycling firms and waste service providers will ensure cost efficiency.

10. Training, Awareness, and Compliance

All staff and students must complete environmental safety and waste handling training annually. Awareness programs, posters, and digital campaigns will promote a zero-waste culture across campus.

11. Review and Continuous Improvement

The policy shall be reviewed every three years or upon introduction of new environmental regulations. Lessons from audits and stakeholder feedback will guide updates.

12. References and Alignment

This policy aligns with SDG 12 targets (12.2–12.5), Uzbekistan’s Law on Environmental Protection (2021), NSU Sustainability Strategy 2025–2030, and the UI GreenMetric and QS Sustainability frameworks.

Conclusion

Through responsible waste management and safe handling of hazardous materials, Navoi State University demonstrates its commitment to sustainability, health, and safety. This policy ensures that all university operations contribute to achieving SDG 12 by fostering a cleaner, safer, and more responsible campus environment.

Annex: Waste Disposal Action Plan (2025–2030)