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Household Hazardous Waste
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Anything that mixes with rain becomes storm water pollution.
For that reason, it is important to dispose of household hazardous waste properly.
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What is household hazardous waste (HHW)?
HHW are chemicals used in homes that are corrosive, ignitable, toxic or reactive and can present a threat or unreasonable risk to people or the environment. These materials turn into HHW when they are no longer usable or wanted.
What are some examples of Household Hazardous Waste?
- Used oil
- Antifreeze
- Bleach
- Turpentine
- Paint thinner
- Bug sprays/killers
- Paint
- Leftover pesticides and fertilizers
- Batteries
- Upholstery/rug cleaner
- Oven cleaners
- Drain openers
- Furniture polish
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Paint can turn toxic when it washes into a storm drain or stream
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Oil on streets washes into our storm drains, polluting our water and harming aquatic life |
Most HHW materials can be disposed of properly in Mecklenburg County by taking them to one of the four full-service recycling centers. For more information, visit http://www.wipeoutwaste.com/.
Each year, people who change their own motor oil in the US dump more oil into the environment than the amount spilled by the worst oil tanker spill in US history.
Just one gallon of oil will pollute one million gallons of water.
For a list of local businesses that will accept used oil from citizens, click here.
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