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Lab Plastic Recycling

Research laboratories are estimated to generate  2–5% of global plastic waste, yet only a small fraction—typically less than 10%—is actually recycled, Given the added complexity of lab plastics—often contaminated or composed of mixed materials—the actual recycling rate for laboratory plastic is likely even lower. This stark disparity underscores the urgency of improving lab-specific recycling practices and transitioning toward more circular, low-waste research operations.

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.

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 is further used to 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.

The Dunn School Green Group has purchased 10 planters made from recycled lab plastic through Appleton Woods and MyGroup. These planters have been distributed to 10 different labs and facilities across the Dunn School. They are now being used to grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs, primarily in the moat at the front of the Dunn School's main building.

The 10 labs and teams participating in this initiative are:

  • EM Facility (Raman Dhaliwal and Charlotte Melia)

  • Finance Team (Sheji Bhaskaran)

  • Freeman Lab (Clemence Levet)

  • Toropova & Roberts lab (Katerina Toropova)

  • Trusts Office and Finance Office (Rachel Faulkes, Raquel Perez Marina, Mervat Zen Aldin)

  • Slack Lab (Sarah Woodward)

  • Stracy Lab (Lorena Blaya Martinez and Carolin Kobras)

  • Walsh Lab (Katherine Ansbro)

  • Workshop Team (Martin Smith)

Each year, during the Dunn Drinks Green Awards, the best-looking vegetable, fruit, or herb and its harvester will be awarded for their efforts and contributions to this green initiative.

Contaminated Lab Plastic Recycling at the Dunn School

At the Dunn School, we separate used lab plastics by type—polystyrene, polypropylene, and HDPE—and set them aside for recycling. Dunn School washing up facility pick, autoclave and set aside them in the bags.

The plastics in the bags are collected by RecycleLab, a specialist recycling service for laboratory waste. RecycleLab sorts the plastics if needed, then shreds them into flakes. These flakes are thoroughly washed to remove contaminants, heated to around 300°C, and processed into small pellets.

The pellets are then used to manufacture new lab items such as tube racks and bottle stands. This mechanical recycling process supports a circular economy by transforming single-use plastics into durable, reusable lab products.

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