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Household Hazardous Waste Disposal
Appropriate hazardous waste disposal is important for more than the ‘hazmat’ teams we often see on television or on the roads. Disposal of hazardous waste occurs on a daily basis and is often done improperly. Not following proper procedures for waste disposal can lead to pollution and/or danger to human health. Household hazardous wastes (HHW) are substances which have dangerous properties but are not regulated under state and federal laws.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, each person in Pennsylvania produces an average of four pounds of household hazardous waste each year or about 25,000 tons/yr. statewide.
Hazardous wastes are often identified as having one or more of the following properties:
- Toxic
- Corrosive/Caustic
- Reactive
- Flammable/Ignitable
- Leftover chemicals including
- Pesticides
- Pool chemicals
- Certain household cleaners
- Spent batteries
- Expired medicines
- Old thermometers containing mercury
- Paint and paint thinners|
- Solvents
For an extensive list of nearly 50 different household hazardous waste products and how to dispose of them, visit this page from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. (note: in this chart, RCC stands for Regional Collection Center)
Taking Action
The best way to deal with HHW is to avoid creating it. Visit our household products site for information on non-toxic cleaning product alternatives.
The Pennsylvania Resources Council (PRC) has compiled a thorough booklet on HHW. How can you get your free copy? Call PRC's western office at (412) 488-7490 or email michaels@ccicenter.org.
For a schedule of Pittsburgh regional HHW collection events, visit the Southwestern Pennsylvania Household Hazardous Waste Task Force.
