The goal of SDG 12 is to “ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns,” including responsible resource use, waste reduction, recycling, and safe waste management.

University of Alkafeel implements SDG 12 through:

·         Campus-wide waste measurement systems

·         Waste classification & 3R strategies (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle)

·         Safe hazardous and medical waste handling

·         Partnerships with local authorities and certified waste facilities

·         Sustainability governance and reporting

Public Evidence of this data shows monitoring of organic, inorganic, and toxic waste, with emphasis on treatment, sterilization, and recycling
 

General process of waste management

1-Collection
Waste is gathered from all university buildings using color-coded bins labeled for paper, plastic, metal, glass, and food waste.

2-Segregation
Collected waste is sorted to distinguish recyclable, organic, and hazardous materials.

3-Recycling & Reuse
Recyclable materials (paper, plastic, metal, glass) are processed or sent to certified recycling partners for reuse.

4-Hazardous Waste Handling
A specialized committee safely manages toxic and biological waste, ensuring quick responses to lab-related incidents.

5-Transportation
Sorted waste is transported by licensed trucks in collaboration with the Al-Najaf Health Directorate.

6-Treatment & Disposal
Waste is treated through eco-friendly methods — sterilized using autoclaves and incinerated for complete disposal.

7-Monitoring & Continuous Improvement
The university regularly evaluates waste performance, organizes sustainability workshops, and updates recycling strategies.

The university measures, records, and reports waste volumes, including:

Inorganic (Non-Toxic)

• 93 t produced
• 45 t reduced
• 35 t reused
• Paper, plastics, engineering/medical waste logs included

Toxic Waste

• 8 t total
• 4.5 t reduced
• 2.5 t reused
• Includes: medical injections, masks/gloves, dental materials

University of Alkafeel takes a structured and responsible approach to resource management, applying the 3R principle to reduce waste and encourage sustainable habits across campus. The goal is not only to dispose of waste correctly, but to build a culture of responsible consumption.

♻️ Reduce

The university minimizes waste at its source through digital-first procedures, reduced printing, and energy-awareness practices. By prioritizing efficient resource use, the campus actively lowers unnecessary consumption.

♻️ Reuse

Whenever possible, materials are reused to extend their life cycle. This includes reuse of learning resources, refurbished lab/IT equipment, and re-use of event materials — ensuring items serve multiple purposes before being replaced.

♻️ Recycle

Recycling systems—such as color-coded bins and dedicated toxic-waste containers—ensure proper sorting and safe routing to certified recyclers. Awareness campaigns further support correct recycling behavior among students and staff.

REDUCE                                                                                      REUSE

RECYCLE

The university applies strict controls for hazardous and medical waste through:

• Secure, labeled containers near labs and clinics
• Authorized collection and sterilization
• Verified incineration via government-linked facilities
• Dedicated oversight committees and safety protocols