Safe Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste: What You Need to Know

Proper disposal of common household items is essential for protecting our environment and public health. Household hazardous waste (HHW) programs play a crucial role in safely managing dangerous substances, preventing pollution, and reducing health risks. Let's explore how to properly dispose of some common household items that require extra precautions for safe disposal.

Metal Paint Cans

If you've got leftover paint in a can, see if anyone might want it for small projects before tossing it out. Using up the paint is the best option! If you can't find a taker, take the can (with any leftover paint) to your local HHW drop-off.

Most paint cans are metal and can be recycled if they're clean and dry. Check with your recycling facility first!

To prepare an empty can for recycling, remove dried paint. For water-based paint, scrape or peel the dried stuff off. If that doesn't work, soak it in soapy water for about an hour and scrub it out. For oil-based paint, soak the inside of the can in mineral spirits, roll it every 15 minutes, then wipe out the loosened paint. Add some dish soap to cut through the oil, and you might need to repeat this a couple of times before rinsing it clean.

Pressurized Tanks

Aerosol cans, propane tanks, butane canisters, and oxygen or helium tanks can be super dangerous if tossed in regular garbage or recycling. The risk of explosion is real if these tanks get crushed or compacted during transport!

Due to their flammable materials, pressurized tanks generally require safe disposal at HHW facilities. Some areas may allow empty aerosol cans for recycling, but be sure to check with your local center and follow their guidelines for proper emptying.

Some tanks, like oxygen or propane ones, might have refill or replacement options available, so check out what's in your area!

Motor Oil & Automotive Fluids

When it comes to disposing of lubricating oils like engine oil, transmission fluid, or brake fluid, you'll want to take them to a designated hazardous waste facility. These centers are equipped to handle hazardous automotive materials safely.

Keep these fluids in their original containers if possible, as the labels help facility staff identify them. If you don't have the originals, clearly label any new containers. Tightly cap all containers to prevent leaks during transport.

Cleaning Chemicals and Containers

Just like automotive fluids, cleaning chemicals should be clearly labeled and taken to HHW facilities. Some cleaning solutions are non-hazardous (think basic soap), but if a label has a warning, it's better to be safe and dispose of it properly.

Even if the containers are plastic, glass, or metal, if they held hazardous chemicals, they belong at a hazardous waste facility.

Fertilizers and Pesticides

Fertilizers and pesticides are packed with synthetic chemicals that can pose risks to human health, so they should only be disposed of at HHW facilities. Tossing these in the trash can contaminate recycling and put waste workers at risk, not to mention the potential for groundwater contamination or air pollution!

Medications

While medications typically don't need to be dropped off at HHW sites, they do require safe disposal. Most pharmacies can guide you on how to return qualified medications so trained professionals can dispose of them properly. Your pharmacist can also tell you if some medications can be flushed or tossed in the trash.

Check with your local recycling facility about accepting plastic pill bottles. Acceptance can vary by location, so it's always good to ask!

By following these guidelines and utilizing available resources, we can ensure that hazardous materials are managed responsibly, contributing to a cleaner and safer environment for everyone.

These days, paper cups have a bad rap. That's because they're designed to be used only once before getting tossed out.

We go through something like half a trillion disposable cups each year, or about seventy cups for every person on the planet. And to meet hygiene requirements, most of them are made out of virgin materials, i.e. real trees. Not recycled paper. Doesn't sound very sustainable, does it? Well, that's because it isn't.

Unlike most paper items, paper cups can't be recycled because they're actually coated in plastic as little as five percent per cup. That's why they're able to hold liquid without leaking all over the place. It's also why they don't get broken down into pulp and turned into recycled paper. While some communities do recycle materials like paper coffee cups, they're very rare. And only getting rarer. Unfortunately, there's just not much of a market for them, which means soda fountain cups, coffee cups, and those little sippy cups your dentist gives you all end up getting landfilled.

Not all paper cups are coated in plastic, though the vast majority are. Less frequently, some are actually lined in wax. Determining which is which can be difficult, though, which is why we advise treating them the same way. If, however, you're certain that your cup is coated in wax, you might be able to compost it, either at home or through your community's organics program, should they have one. You can check to confirm whether they're accepted using our app.

Though you probably can't recycle paper cups in your community, plastic lids and the corrugated sleeves your coffee comes in are probably fair game. You could also reduce the seventy cups or so you contribute to the global share by exploring alternatives that are more sustainable. There are plenty of places where you can buy reusable cups, including your local coffee shop.

In the meantime, some of the best and brightest are looking at tackling the single-use paper cup problem. Freiburg, a city in Germany, has an interesting solution: the Freiburg Cup. It's a hard-plastic reusable cup that's supplied to participating businesses by the city and it only costs customers a Ǩ1 deposit. Even Starbuck's is getting in on the action. Recently, they partnered up with Closed Loop to develop a recyclable, compostable cup.

Until that happens, remember: though they're paper, in most municipalities, paper cups go in the trash!

Summer is a time for celebration. Which means fireworks, lots of fireworks.

Fireworks play a pivotal role in our public celebrations, from Canada Day and Independence Day to New Year's Eve, and it's easy to see why. They're dramatic and awe-inspiring, a perfect way to wrap up a festive night of fun, whether you're at a large public event or a block party with close friends and family.

But once the celebrations are over and the smoke has cleared, they can be a mess to clean up. Especially if you don't know what to do with them. Fireworks, when incorrectly disposed of, can be dangerous. To you, the individuals who handle your waste, and the environment.

How it's done

First off, you'll want to make sure your pyrotechnics are waterlogged. This goes for used and unused fireworks. Duds, too, once you've determined they're safe to handle. Soak your ordinance in a bucket of water for at least 15 minutes. Some recommend up to 48 hours, but that's not necessary if they're wet throughout.

Once you're satisfied, drain any excess water into the toilet, and place your fireworks into a sealable plastic bag to maintain moisture. Feel free to double bag them, too. Finally, you can safely toss them into the garbage. The same goes for most other combustibles.

Some communities even host takeback events for unused ordinance, so be sure to check in with yours to see. You can also contact your Fire Department for more information. Whatever you do, don't recycle your fireworks. Though most of them are made out of paper, they're not recyclable. Ever.

Fireworks and the environment

Not to be a killjoy, but fireworks aren't exactly great for the environment.

In fact, on average, Fourth of July celebrations alone contribute 42% more air pollution across the U.S. Fireworks contain plenty of toxic materials. The colors they produce when ignited, for example, come from heavy metals like barium, aluminum, and strontium. Perchlorates, which are propellants, are a family of extremely reactive oxygen and chlorine compounds -the same NASA uses to launch rockets into space. None of these chemicals play well with humans or the environment.

Granted, we don't use fireworks often enough to see a long-term impact on the planet. At least, not yet. But it's still something to consider, and it's a big reason why we need to be vigilant about how we dispose of them. When it's done right, we can prevent toxic chemicals from leaching into the water, where they can do the most damage.

Alternatives?

If you're feeling down about fireworks, sorry. Thankfully, there are other alternatives out there. Laser lightshows have gained in popularity and are currently being used as an alternative. There are also eco-friendly fireworks. Though not entirely green, they're an improvement. If none of these options work for you, that's okay, too. Just remember to dunk, double bag, and dispose of your used and unused fireworks in the trash.

The ongoing search for sustainable and eco-friendly power has led to remarkable advancements in the field of renewable energy.

Researchers, engineers, and innovators are tirelessly working to develop cutting-edge solutions as various sectors grapple with the challenges of climate change and strive to reduce their carbon footprints.

Here are some of the most exciting innovations shaping the future of renewable energy, from solar power to wind energy and beyond.

1.    Energy Storage Breakthroughs

One of the challenges of renewable energy sources like solar and wind is their intermittent nature. Storage technologies are crucial for overcoming this hurdle. Battery technology advancements, particularly the development of high-capacity and long-life batteries, are transforming the landscape.

Solid-state batteries promise higher energy density, faster charging times, and enhanced safety compared to traditional lithium-ion versions. These innovations pave the way for more reliable and efficient storage systems, ultimately supporting the integration of renewable power into the mainstream grid.

2.    Tidal and Wave Energy

Using the power of the ocean's tides and waves is an area of renewable energy that's gaining traction. Seawater is 832 times denser than air, making it a much more efficient source. Innovative technologies, such as underwater turbines and oscillating water columns, are being developed to capture the immense energy potential of our oceans.

These technologies provide a consistent and reliable energy source and have minimal visual impact, addressing some concerns associated with other forms of renewable power. They also have a lower environmental footprint, as they don't require large land areas and can be situated offshore.

3.    Advancements in Wind Energy

Wind energy is the largest renewable energy source in the United States, powering 10.1% of the country and continuing to grow. It continues to evolve with breakthroughs in onshore and offshore technologies.

Floating wind farms can tap into deeper waters where traditional fixed turbines are impractical. This innovation expands the geographical range for harnessing wind energy, making it possible to generate power in previously inaccessible locations.

Additionally, blade design and materials developments are improving wind turbines' efficiency and durability. These innovations increase energy output and contribute to reducing maintenance costs, making wind power even more economically viable.

4.    Hydrogen as Clean Fuel

Hydrogen has emerged as a promising clean fuel that can be produced using eco-friendly energy sources. Green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis powered by renewable electricity, is gaining momentum as a viable carrier.

This versatile gas can be used in various sectors, including transportation, industry, and heating, offering a green alternative to conventional fossil fuels.

5.    Renewable Diesel

With fuel prices on the rise year after year, the search for alternatives has become more urgent. Renewable diesel represents a significant innovation in sustainable transportation fuels, offering a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel derived from fossil fuels. It's created through a hydroprocessing method involving the hydrogenation of triglycerides and fatty acids.

This process results in a fuel that's nearly identical to petroleum-based diesel, making it compatible with existing engines and infrastructure. It delivers over 50% reduction in greenhouse gases when compared to petroleum-based diesel.

6.    Next-Gen Solar Technologies

Solar energy holds enormous potential. Every 90 minutes, enough sunlight reaches the Earth's surface to meet the entire population's electricity demands for a year.

Solar power remains a frontrunner in the renewable energy race, and recent innovations are making it more efficient and accessible. Perovskite solar cells have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional silicon-based cells. They boast high-efficiency levels and are more cost-effective to produce, potentially revolutionizing the solar power landscape.

Manufacturers are also developing transparent solar panels for integration into windows, turning everyday surfaces into energy-generating assets. These innovations enhance power production and open up new possibilities for urban integration.

Additionally, advancements in bifacial solar panels enhance energy capture by using light reflected off surfaces, such as rooftops or the ground. This dual-sided absorption significantly increases the overall power yield, making solar installations more productive and efficient.

7.    Rechargeable Tires

In the pursuit of sustainable transportation solutions, innovators have turned their attention to an unexpected component of vehicles - tires. Rechargeable tires involve integrating technology to harness and store energy during motion. This can power various automotive parts, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and contributing to increased fuel efficiency.

The rechargeable tire concept typically involves incorporating piezoelectric materials or electromagnetic generators within the structure. As the car moves, these components convert the mechanical energy generated by the friction between the tire and the road into electrical power. This is then stored in a battery integrated into the vehicle's tire.

The stored energy could power onboard sensors, lighting systems, or even electric components, reducing the overall power demand on the vehicle and enhancing its efficiency. While this concept is still relatively new, experts expect the market to grow exponentially in the coming years.

Hope for a Greener Future

The renewable energy sector is experiencing a rapid transformation fueled by groundbreaking innovations. From enhancing the efficiency of existing technologies to exploring new frontiers like hydrogen and tidal energy, these developments are driving humanity closer to a sustainable and cleaner future.

The dream of a world powered by green power becomes increasingly attainable as products evolve, offering hope for a greener and more sustainable planet.

Author Bio

Oscar Collins is the editor-in-chief at Modded. He has extensive experience writing about sustainability, green living, and electric vehicles, contributing to publications like Earth911, Mindset Eco, and Green Union. Follow him on Twitter @TModded for frequent updates on his work.

With the rise of plastic pollution and the movement to reduce plastic waste, the possibility of Styrofoam Recycling is a critical question you need answers to. We will tell you all you need to know about the fundamental issues surrounding Styrofoam recycling today.

Technically Styrofoam is a specific brand of expanded polystyrene foam made by DuPont. Actual Styrofoam is made for construction and used as an insulation filler. Any of the foam plates, egg cartons, meat trays, cups, packaging inserts, coolers, etc. are actually expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) made from a wide variety of companies. Yet, colloquially, we still call it all Styrofoam. Calling all these items polystyrene is starting to catch on, but Styrofoam is what everyone typically knows all of these items as.

How bad is Styrofoam for the environment?

In addition to the many probable health risks that EPS foam creates, there are also several negative impacts from this material on our environment.

Being such a lightweight product that can sometimes break into tiny bits, Styrofoam packaging and containers can easily turn into an abundance of pollution in our environment from litter that is picked up by the wind. This can pollute land and water making it easy for wildlife to ingest as they mistake it for bits of food.

While initially Styrofoam type products were thought to be safe for the environment, it has now been determined that over time they release a gaseous methane derivative known as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). CFCs contribute to depleting the ozone layer, which is a large factor in climate change. The degradation of EPS or Styrofoam products accounts for almost 3% of CFCs in the atmosphere.

The disposal of this material is where the problem really lies. Polystyrene is made to be protected from the elements, so when it ends up in a landfill, it will not break down and will just be a contributing factor to increased waste. While the exact lifespan of these products is unknown, scientists speculate it will take at least 500 years for polystyrene to break down, if it ever does at all.

Is there an environmentally friendly way to dispose of Styrofoam?

If foam recycling is not an option in any given area, the other solutions are to add it to a landfill or to burn it. Neither of these options are particularly good. As previously mentioned, there is little chance of this material breaking down in a landfill for hundreds if not thousands of years.

As for burning polystyrene, this can be done safely and efficiently with the same types of byproducts as a car produces. This however means carbon dioxide. Carbon emissions, again, are a large contributor to climate change, so burning Styrofoam products is not a particularly environmentally friendly option.

Recycling Styrofoam or expanded polystyrene foam is the most environmentally friendly disposal, plus it reduces the need for making as much new Styrofoam, but it is not always accepted in most locations.

How does Styrofoam recycling work?

To recycle foam packaging, it is cleaned then shredded before being melted down into a paste then turned into pellets. These pellets are able to be sent to manufactures to produce new products.

There are also some recyclers using new advances in chemical recycling to break down polystyrene at a chemical level to reprocess it. This type of recycling can also accept polystyrene that is dirtier, such as food packaging that has been soiled, whereas traditional recycling methods for this material only accept clean foam. Chemical recycling is still fairly new and uncommon at this point.

Any kind of recycling of expanded polystyrene (EPS) is still overall an expensive process, so it is often not offered at local recycling facilities. Since making new EPS packaging from oil is typically cheaper than using recycled EPS materials, it is not considered cost effective by manufactures to use. If a recycling facility doesn't have a buyer for the recovered materials, then they don't tend accept that material to recover, since there would be nowhere for it to go.

Does Styrofoam go in my recycling?

The technology exists for expanded polystyrene recycling, but it does not mean your local recycling program automatically accepts it. It is important not to contaminate your recycling with materials that don't belong, so you should always look up what your recycling facility accepts and does not accept.

While many locations do not accept Styrofoam in their program, some programs may accept it at special drop-off locations or at certain collection events. This is often because Styrofoam breaks easily and sticks to other materials in your bin causing contamination. Please check with your municipality before assuming they offer Styrofoam or EPS recycling.

Are there alternatives to using Styrofoam?

There are almost always alternatives to using any type of plastic, so Styrofoam is no different. Avoiding single-use items of any kind is always a good idea. Using reusable containers, plates, etc. can significantly reduce your need for polystyrene.

Reusing foam packaging, such as packing peanuts, is a viable option if you end up with them. By reusing these types of items, you can keep them out of landfill longer, and you can avoid buying more of them.

Finding alternatives for Styrofoam packaging can be a bit trickier, but fortunately more and more biodegradable options are being put on the market these days. There are companies working on making polystyrene alternatives from mushrooms, corn starch, and other biodegradable materials. These types of innovations in plastics are game changers.

In Conclusion

With all the ins-and-outs surrounding Styrofoam recycling, it is important that you always check with your municipality to see if they accept any types of expanded polystyrene foam. You can search the 'What Goes Where' search tool on the Recycle Coach mobile app in participating areas.

Otherwise, try to avoid using EPS foam whenever possible so you can avoid plastic waste and reduce our need for more plastic to be produced.

To rinse, or not to rinse your recyclables. That is the question.And if you do need to rinse, what about sticky stuff like yogurt that clings to the sides of the container?You may have pondered these questions as you hovered indecisively over your bin, wondering if it's OK to drop your containers in as-is. Especially if you've heard that the water usage takes away from recycling savings.It used to be that some cities, such as Chicago, didn't need residents to rinse their recyclables. They took on the job of cleaning materials themselves. But Chicago and more areas like it now ask residents to remove the bulk of food residue. A quick rinse is fine - there's no need to make it clean enough to eat off of. The heat process can burn off small amounts of stuck-on food. And to make the process even more earth friendly, you can even re-use dish water.

Single-stream challenges

If your community uses single-stream recycling, where all of your recyclable materials are put in one bin and separated at the recycling facility, there is another factor to consider, too.Even if your unrinsed yogurt container, soda can or other residue-containing item is upright when you put it into the bin, after being dumped into the truck, bounced along for miles and compressed, there's a pretty good chance that somewhere along the way whatever started off inside will come out.That's bad news for any paper or cardboard that might be on board. While a drop of yogurt might not make a huge difference, it adds up. And even a small bit of oil or grease (salad dressing, anyone?) can ruin the entire load of paper recyclables.

The bottom line: rinse recyclables, seriously

You don't need to scrub those plastic and glass containers with soap and water to make them clean enough to eat off of. But taking a moment to give them a rinse, even if it's just with dishwater runoff, will ensure that they end up getting processed. For more helpful tips and tricks on handling your household waste, download the Recycle Coach app for free. If your city's a member of our network, we'll hook you up with information customized to where you live.

Whether it's for a birthday, housewarming, graduation, or wedding, flowers always make an amazing gift. But what do you do with the flower bouquets after the event is over? Do you just dispose of them? Can you place them in jars for decoration? We have a few ways you can reuse, repurpose, or recycle your stunning blooms from petals to wrappers, especially if gently used.

Petals 

The petals are, of course, what makes a spring flower bouquet most beautiful. It is not unusual to feel guilty when throwing them away. The colorful and aromatically captivating petals will probably be screaming at you to hold on to them longer.

Instead of tossing them in the garbage after an event, there are a few creative ways to recycle used flower petals. Some of these include the following:

Drying Them for Use in Décor

Drying is one of the best ways to recycle flowers  that you want to hold on to. Well, decorating with dried flowers is not rocket science. Simply dry the petals with the stems still intact and hang them in distinct areas of your home to serve as wall décor.

For the best effect, be sure to place them with the petals facing down. Also, dried foliage can be delicate, and could break when disturbed, so make sure to choose the best spot to avoid this.

Make Potpourri

Used flower petals can be a great source of perfume, especially for your home. When the wedding or other occasion is over, pick up the best-scented flower petals and turn them into potpourri. So how do you make potpourri exactly? 

You will find dozens of potpourri recipes out there, but it simply involves mixing flower petals and other ingredients/spices, then heating them in an oven to create a fragrant blend. Most people use spices like cinnamon, thyme, and rosemary, as well as orange and lemon. Essential oils and water are also commonly included in the mixture to add flavor and consistency.

Consider Composting 

If you have a green thumb or you're a fan of gardening, there's no better way to recycle florals than composting them. These colorful blooms still have a lot of nutrients despite their life having been cut short .

If you're wondering how, you may find this household guide to composting worth reading. Just isolate the petals, cut them up, and add them into your in-ground compost bin. There are rich sources of carbon and nitrogen in compost depending on how decomposed the flowers are.

Regift Them

If your blooms still look fresh and bright after your ceremony, why not consider donating them or gifting them? You can even gift-wrap the flowers afresh before regifting them. Senior homes, hospitals, and charity organizations are some of the places you can donate slightly spent flower bouquets.

Wrappers 

Bouquet wrappers can be recycled in so many ways to make something unique, cute, and practical. Depending on what you are making, recycling bouquet wraps may require cutting, folding, shredding, or taping. Below is a list of ways you can reuse or recycle flower wrappers.

• Make future party decorations
• Create home décor items
• Make desk organizers with packaging
• And much more

Sustainable Alternatives to Giving Cut Flowers

As we might have mentioned already, fresh-cut flowers can only last for so long. With the utmost care and maintenance, many cut flowers only stay alive for seven to twelve days, give or take. This means that fresh flower gifts end up being disposed of quickly, raising concerns over their eco-friendliness.

Thankfully, there are several alternatives so you can still show someone how special they are to you with flowers. For instance, you can gift someone with the whole plant instead of its fresh flower cuts. Other common sustainable options include:

• Cacti and other succulents
• Potted plants
• Flower basket hangings
• Artificial flowers like Silk and Fabric variants
• A bonsai tree

While flowers make amazing gifts, no one said that gift-giving shouldn't be sustainable and environmentally friendly. By recycling flowers or using sustainable alternatives, you are actually reducing your toll on the environment. These tips can serve as your guide to recycling used flowers after a party, event, or ceremony.

Do you have other ways to use your wilting flowers? Let us know in the comments below.

Author Bio:

Claire Jane Ward is an experienced eco-lifestyle and marketing writer with a passion for creating insightful and engaging content that's easy to digest. She aims to help build a better future for the environment and its habitants by educating them to live sustainably in practical ways. Occasionally she spends her time playing with her cat while listening to her favorite podcasts.

Reducing Plastic Waste at Home

Reducing plastic waste at home can have a huge impact on the environment, but it's not without its challenges. There are many different types of plastic, and the recycling process can be a challenge for many municipalities due to the technology needed, varying recovery equipment, and different end markets. It's crucial to check which items are accepted in your local program.

This guide will help you understand the likelihood of recycling various single-use plastic items while sharing tips to avoid using single-use plastics whenever possible.

Plastic Water Bottles

Recyclability: Plastic water bottles are highly sought after by recycling centers. Nearly all recycling facilities accept these bottles, typically made from PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate #1), which are highly recyclable.

Tip: Use a reusable water bottle. Metal is the most sustainable choice!

Plastic Straws

Recyclability: Plastic straws are usually made from #2 Polypropylene or #5 Polyethylene plastics. However, their small size makes them problematic for sorting machines.

Tip: Avoid straws altogether if possible, or use biodegradable straws made from paper or bamboo.

Food Storage Containers

Recyclability: Tupperware and similar containers are sustainable for reuse but may not be recyclable due to food contamination concerns. Check local guidelines for acceptance.

Tip: Reuse containers until they are no longer usable. Consider switching to glass containers for longer product lifespans.

Black Plastic Containers

Recyclability: Many take-out containers are made from black plastic, which is rarely accepted in recycling due to sorting issues.

Tip: Reuse these containers for food storage or donate them to local food shelters.

Plastic Cutlery

Recyclability: Traditional plastic cutlery is often made from #5 Polypropylene or #6 Polystyrene. While #5 is accepted in many places, #6 is not, and they often end up in landfills.

Tip: Use regular silverware or choose compostable cutlery when disposables are necessary.

Yogurt Cups

Recyclability: Many recycling programs accept yogurt cups, but cleanliness is crucial. If they can't be rinsed, it's better to toss them in the garbage.

Tip: Buy in bulk to reduce the number of containers you dispose of. Larger containers also provide reusable storage for leftovers.

Reducing and Recycling

There are many more ways to reduce plastic waste in your home, but hopefully, this guide gives you a good start. Knowing what is and isn't accepted in your local recycling program is key to maintaining a sustainable and eco-friendly household.