Sustainable Waste Disposal

Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) recognizes the environmental and social impact of waste generation and is committed to implementing a sustainable waste management policy. This policy outlines our framework for minimizing waste production, promoting responsible waste disposal practices, and fostering a culture of environmental awareness within our university community.
 

(A) Waste Segregation and Collection

(i) JMI shall implement a comprehensive waste segregation system across campus. Clearly labeled bins shall be provided throughout the university for different waste categories, including:
 

• Wet/Food Waste
• Green Waste
• Dry Waste
• Inert Waste
   

(ii) JMI shall train the sanitation staff to separate waste at source itself into the above categories.
(iii) JMI shall provide clearly labeled recycling bins in all campus buildings, including hostels, residential areas and public areas to encourage proper disposal.
(iv) Landfill waste (residues not suitable for recycling or composting)
(v) Signage will be displayed near waste bins to educate users on proper waste sorting practices.
(vi) Regular waste collection schedules will be established for each waste category.

(B) Waste Reduction & Reuse

JMI shall encourage waste reduction through various initiatives:

(i) Promote the use of reusable water bottles and mugs to minimize single-use disposables.
(ii)Discourage the use of excessive packaging materials in university operations.
(iii) Explore options for purchasing recycled-content paper and other sustainable products.
(iv) Encourage double-sided printing and paperless communication where feasible.

(C) Recycling and Composting Programs

(i) JMI shall establish a robust recycling program for designated recyclable materials (paper, plastic, glass, metal).

(ii)The composting facilities shall be further strengthened to effectively manage organic waste generated from hostels & cafeterias etc. The composted material can be used to fertilize campus gardens or landscaping projects or donate to the local community.

(D) Biogas Plant for Organic Waste

(i)JMI shall install and operate biogas plant(s) to convert organic waste, such as food scraps and landscaping trimmings, into renewable energy.
(ii) JMI shall use biogas for cooking in hostels, campus cafeterias, or generating electricity for campus buildings

(E)Electronic Waste (E-Waste) Recycling

(i)JMI shall reduce electronic waste consumption by reusing the parts from defective electronic items such as computers & printers for repairing compatible items.
(ii) JMI’s Purchase & Stores Office shall collect all condemned electronics items, including old computers, printers, and other electronic devices and ensure their proper disposal and/or recycling as per Delhi Pollution Control Committee E-Waste Management Rules.
(iii) Partnerships shall be explored with local waste collection agencies / recycling facilities to ensure responsible and efficient processing of collected waste including medical & chemical waste and recyclables.​​​​​​

(F) Biomedical Waste Management
Biomedical waste is any waste containing infectious or potentially infectious materials. These wastes are generated during the diagnosis, treatment, and immunization of humans and animals.

(i) The department/centre which is consuming/generating biomedical waste shall ensure safe and environmentally sound management of biomedical and other wastes generated in their labs.
(ii) The wastes generated shall be disposed off by engaging authorized biomedical waste management companies having appropriate authorization from government departments.

(G) Hazardous Waste Management
Hazardous waste means any waste which causes danger to health or environment, whether alone or when in contact with other waste. JMI shall establish a designated collection point for hazardous waste in accordance with local regulations.

(i) The department/centre which is consuming/generating hazardous waste shall ensure safe and environmentally sound management of hazardous and other wastes generated in their labs.
(ii) The hazardous wastes generated shall be sent or sold to an authorized actual OEM or shall be disposed off in an authorized disposal facility.
(iii) Proper disposal of hazardous waste will be ensured through partnerships with authorized hazardous waste management companies having appropriate authorization from government departments.

(H) Education and Awareness

(i) JMI shall regularly organize workshops, campaigns, and outreach programs to educate students, faculty, staff, and visitors about the importance of waste reduction, responsible disposal practices, and the benefits of recycling and composting.
(ii) Information and educational materials on waste management will be disseminated through various channels, including campus publications, online platforms, and signage.
(iii) JMI shall encourage students to actively participate in Eco Club activities.