Measures toward effective management of hazardous solid waste at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT)

Abstract

Abstract Hazardous waste (HW) management poses significant challenges in Vietnam, particularly within higher education institutions (HEIs), despite regulatory advancements. This study focuses on the effective management of HW at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), considering the risks posed by HW generation and the need for sustainable practices. This research aims to explore and propose comprehensive strategies for HW categorization, storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal within HEIs, emphasizing sustainable management practices to mitigate adverse health and environmental impacts. Adopting an Environmental Systems Analysis framework, this study employs expert interviews and a SWOT analysis to assess the current state of HW management at HCMUT. Structured interviews probe experts on key challenges, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, providing insights for strategic interventions. The investigation reveals critical issues in HW management at HCMUT, including commendable execution of procedures but persisting ambiguities in regulations, financial challenges, and difficulties in controlling input data. The SWOT analysis identifies internal strengths, weaknesses, and external opportunities and threats, guiding proposed solutions. Addressing identified challenges, this study proposes a tailored HW management process integrating educational initiatives and a structured Handbook on Hazardous Solid Waste Management for HCMUT. These recommendations aim to enhance awareness, compliance, and sustainability in HW management, contributing to effective risk mitigation and sustainable practices within HEIs.