UMinho is committed to environmental sustainability, seeking to balance environmental protection, pollution prevention and socio-economic development. This commitment is put into practice through good practices and appropriate procedures for managing waste generated on its premises.
Correctly identifying the main types of waste generated across UMinho’s campuses and buildings is essential for effectively defining the stages of separation, collection, storage, transport and disposal. Proper sorting and packaging of waste are the responsibility of those who generate it, who must take the necessary steps to ensure that waste is correctly classified.
Waste management must follow the hierarchy established in the general waste management framework, prioritising the prevention and reduction of waste generation and hazard levels. Where applicable, the reuse of products and materials should be encouraged to extend their life cycle.
Preparing waste for reuse, recycling and other forms of recovery allows waste to be converted into resources, reducing the need for disposal and promoting the efficient use of natural resources. Disposal is the last resort and should only be used when recovery is not technically or economically feasible. It must be carried out using methods appropriate to the type of waste and in accordance with current legislation.