Glove and Mask Recycling
In the high-paced environment of scientific research at the Dunn School, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and masks is essential for maintaining a safe and controlled laboratory setting. However, the significant volume of waste from these disposable items, if not responsibly managed, ends up in incinerators, significantly impacting our environmental footprint.
To address this, we proudly introduce our Glove and Mask Recycling Initiative. Initially launched by Saroj Saurya for the Raff Lab, the program was later assisted by Lilli Hahn and Anne Hedegaard. Currently, it's co-managed by the 'Washing Up' team and Saroj Saurya.
Specially marked recycling bins are strategically placed throughout our labs and common areas. Once filled, these bins are sent to a dedicated recycling facility where the PPE is sterilized, processed, and repurposed into new plastic products. Currently we partner with Appleton Woods to recycle non-contaminated gloves and masks, as well as any other plastic items that are not usually recyclable, provided they are non-hazardous within the department.
We invite everyone at the Dunn School to participate. By choosing to recycle safe-to-use gloves and masks, as well as other non-hazardous plastics, you're not only reducing waste but also adopting a more sustainable approach to scientific research. Every item saved from incineration counts. Let's embrace our role as environmental stewards in the realm of scientific research!
Min Peng keeps used, uncontaminated gloves for recycling in the box. The washing team will collect the gloves, place them in boxes, and send these boxes to a company that transforms them into benches, bins, and other items. Photo taken by Bocheng Xiao
Saroj Saurya depositing gloves into a Terracycle box for recycling. Photo by Jo Peel.
Appcycle box (1000L) from Appleton Woods for recycling gloves and masks. Photo by Jo Peel
Min Peng keeps used, uncontaminated gloves for recycling in the box. The washing team will collect the gloves, place them in boxes, and send these boxes to a company that transforms them into benches, bins, and other items. Photo taken by Bocheng Xiao
Saroj Saurya visited the My Group recycling facility in Hull to gain a deep understanding of how lab plastic, especially gloves, is recycled. The trip was arranged by Appleton Woods representative Luke Housley on 14th September 2023. Representative from the University of Cambridge, Gaynor Smith, was also present. The plastic is first shredded, then transformed into pellets and finally into powder form. These pellets are then sandwiched between layers of powder on a hot plate to create plastic ply. This material is subsequently used to manufacture benches, planters, bookshelves, and more. The knowledge gained will be used to further recycle un-recyclable lab plastics, such as types 4, 7, and those without any numbers, at the Dunn School. Watch Youtube video to see what happens to our recycled gloves, masks and other lab plastic at the recycling centres.
Michael Derbyshire, Samanatha, Saroj, Gaynor Smith, and Luke Housley at My Group recycling center in Hull. Photo by one of My Group's employees
Saroj Saurya, Gaynor Smith, and My Group senior managers (Samantha) in the meeting room at their recycling center. Photo by Luke Housley
The handwashing wall and top made from recycled plastic milk bottles and blue caps in The Deep aquarium in Hull. Photo by Saroj Saurya
Michael Derbyshire, Samanatha, Saroj, Gaynor Smith, and Luke Housley at My Group recycling center in Hull. Photo by one of My Group's employees