Hazardous materials can be found in just about every home. In fact, you can probably find hazardous products in several different locations throughout your home. The problem is that once these products are no longer used, they become household hazardous waste, which is dangerous both to people's health and the environment. The average American household produces about 30 pounds of household hazardous waste every year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Choose Nonhazardous
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation recommends that consumers read product labels before purchasing any cleaning products, automotive fluids, paints and thinners, or pesticides and chemical fertilizers that contain toxic, corrosive or flammable chemicals. Be careful, too, of products that can explode or release poisonous fumes when mixed with other harmful materials. Hazardous waste can contaminate landfills and water supplies if not disposed of properly. For this reason, you should choose products that contain the least hazardous materials, or use nontoxic alternatives. A wide variety of natural products are available for household and lawn purposes. Select nonaerosol products that will not pollute the air---many of which come packaged as pump sprays. Water-based paints and glues are another practical option.
Recycle
Dispose of household hazardous waste as instructed on a product's label. Always store products in their original containers until you can dispose of them at a household hazardous waste collection facility. If there is not a collection site near you, contact your local government office, as many communities schedule household hazardous waste collection events throughout the year. Motor oil is a product that is collected for recycling at many auto parts stores and service stations. Automotive fluids such as motor oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, air-conditioning Freon, power-steering fluid and windshield wiper fluid can all be recycled. Other household hazardous waste products that must be recycled or disposed of at authorized collection facilities include solvents, automotive and household batteries, paint, flammable liquids, and mercury thermometers.
Share
One of the best ways to avoid having waste is to buy only the amount you think you might need to get the job done. That way you won't have to worry about disposing of any unused portions. Resist the temptation to buy the economy size to save money. When it comes to buying paint, ask a clerk at the hardware store to assist you in calculating how many gallons you will need. Offer leftover paint or other products to someone who might be able to use them. If no one else can use the product, store any unused amounts according to the instructions on the product label. Do not buy new until you use up what you have or dispose of it at a household hazard waste recycling center. Contact local businesses or nonprofit agencies in your area to find out if they are interested in a donation of unused paint or other products.
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