The Meakins-Christie Laboratories was the first research group at the RI-MUHC to pilot a new recycling and sustainability project. This sustainability project aims to reduce waste by collecting and recycling non-biohazardous materials, including laboratory plastics and glass. These items are collected on-site and managed by the firm Multirecycle, ensuring that 100% of the materials are diverted from the waste stream and recycled. Building on the success of the pilot project, the recycling initiative has now expanded to three additional RI-MUHC programs in 2024. The success of this pilot project would not have been possible without the dedication and efforts of our laboratory coordinator, Ms. Séverine Audusseau. She led the team effort in sustainability at the RI-MUHC.
Since this pilot, the RI-MUHC is making strides in sustainability by expanding its recycling efforts, part of its 2030 Vision for environmental responsibility. Since 2023, the RI-MUHC’s lab ware recycling program has grown to cover all six research programs at the Glen site, diverting significant waste from landfills. With help from dedicated Ambassadors, five types of lab materials, such as pipette tip boxes and nitrile gloves, are sorted and recycled, ensuring a cleaner waste stream. So far, over 1,200 kg of lab ware has been recycled. Additionally, the program includes broader waste management for items like electronics and furniture, with plans to expand to the Montreal General Hospital by year-end.
Read More
RI-MUHC expands recycling to new heights. Impressive cooperation from research programs brings new success to the RI-MUHC waste recycling and sustainability efforts. RI-MUHC News. Oct 2, 2024.