ChemEx, Dalhousie University’s Laboratory Chemical Exchange Program takes
surplus chemicals that would otherwise be destined for disposal and donates them
to research and teaching laboratories at Dalhousie and in neighbouring institutions.

The Program began as a pilot project in 1991 when the Environmental Health and Safety Office circulated a list of surplus chemicals to other Dalhousie departments. The response was so overwhelming that soon other institutions wanted to take part in the exchange. Since 1992, over 6000 chemicals have been exchanged between departments and with other institutions. ChemEx maintains a web-based catalogue and order system that lists available chemicals. Not only does ChemEx save participants money by recycling surplus chemicals free of charge, but ChemEx reduces environmental impacts associated with waste disposal.

Dr. William Louch, Director of Environmental Health and Safety at Dalhousie University accepted the RRFB Nova Scotia Mobius Environmental Award of Industry Steward of the Year on behalf of Dalhousie University.