Hazardous waste is creating a worldwide crisis, affecting the health of the people and the environment. Most homeowners are unaware that hazardous waste is also generated at home, and not just in medical and industrial facilities. Household hazardous waste (HHW) contributes to environmental degradation and health risks to the community. A lack of this information means hazardous waste from households is being stored and disposed of incorrectly.
Many household items, from nail polish to cleaning agents, are hazardous to our health and the environment. The chemicals affect the air quality and lead to various health issues. Lack of proper storage, segregation, and disposal practices means these items continue to affect the environment adversely. This blog discusses proper hazardous waste disposal techniques to ensure the safety of your family and environmental protection. Safe disposal practices help homeowners avoid legal consequences while ensuring the safety of their community and the environment.
What is Household Hazardous Waste
Household hazardous waste refers to everyday items in homes that adversely affect human health and the environment when disposed of with regular trash. Items containing corrosive materials, flammable liquids, and toxic chemicals become hazardous when they are no longer in use or have expired. Cleaning agents, paints, batteries, pesticides, electronics, automotive fuels, fluorescent lights, and thermometers are common items that become hazardous when disposed of incorrectly.
Flammable items, such as petrol and kerosene, can easily ignite and cause fires. Corrosive materials, such as drain cleaners and rust removers, can cause eye and skin irritation and corrode pipes. Strong and harmful chemicals can cause respiratory health issues, while exposure to or ingestion of poisonous items can be fatal. Improper disposal exposes sanitation workers and wildlife to toxins that cause health issues and environmental degradation.
Why Proper Waste Disposal Matters
Proper hazardous waste disposal can save your family’s health, the community, and the environment from serious problems.
Health and Safety Risks
Household hazardous wastes disposed of in landfills release toxins that pollute the air and cause serious respiratory issues. They also seep into the ground, contaminating soil and water sources, which can cause diseases. Toxic chemicals can irritate or burn the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Improper storage and disposal of flammable items can even lead to fires and explosions. Children and pets can come in contact with these items and get injured or poisoned.
Environmental Pollution
When hazardous waste reaches landfills, it pollutes the air, soil, and water sources. Coming in contact with or ingesting these wastes can lead to wildlife injuries or death. Contamination from hazardous waste impacts all environmental elements and ecosystems.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Various government and environmental agencies, such as the EPA, regulate the disposal of hazardous waste to lower the impact on public health and the environment. Failing to comply with federal and local regulations regarding disposal can have severe legal consequences, including hefty fines or penalties. Each person also has a social and moral obligation to protect the public health and conserve the environment.
Resource Conservation
Many household wastes also consist of recyclable items, such as metals and plastics. Proper sorting and recycling conserve valuable resources, lower pressure on landfills, and protect the environment.
Proper handling of HHW minimizes health risks and contributes to a cleaner and safer environment.
Proper Waste Disposal at Home
Follow this step-by-step guide to manage hazardous waste properly at home.
Identify Hazardous Wastes
Most items, such as cleaning products, pesticides, aerosols, and batteries, become hazardous waste once they expire or are no longer in use. Phrases such as caution, danger, toxic, and flammable on the labels of items indicate their hazardous nature as well as proper disposal methods. Homeowners should be aware of common hazardous items, including cleaning agents, automotive fluids, pesticides, and e-waste. Such items should be segregated and disposed of as hazardous waste.
Store Safely
Before disposal, most of the hazardous waste should be stored securely. Store hazardous items in their original containers with labels for clear instructions. Keep them in a ventilated, cool, and dry place or as instructed on the labels, away from heat sources and sunlight to prevent reactions, fires, and leaks. They should always be out of reach of children and pets. Plastic bins or trays can be used as secondary protection to contain leaks and spills.
Use Local Disposal Programs
Each locality has a designated drop-off location or specified HHW collection events according to local disposal regulations. Contact your local municipality or waste disposal authority to learn about the disposal programs. You can find information about local waste disposal facilities, their locations, operating hours, and disposal fees on municipal websites. They also post about disposal events that accept bulk waste and other hazardous waste not accepted by disposal facilities.
Many municipalities also provide drop-off centers, special collection events, and pickup services for people who are unable to transport the waste themselves. Online resources such as the EPA, Green Citizen’s Green Diary, and Earth911 help you locate facilities near you.
Follow Community Guidelines
All localities have strict regulations regarding the storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste. Mainly, there are rules regarding the use of color-coded bins, proper labeling, containment, and disposal practices. Check local websites or contact sanitation departments to ensure safe and compliant disposal.
Clean Up
The storage area of hazardous waste should be cleaned after disposal to remove any residue using mild soap and water. Ensure that contaminated items, such as gloves, rags, or plastic bags, are also discarded safely. Proper cleaning prevents accidental exposure and keeps your family safe. Educate your family about safe disposal practices, review your current disposal method, and make necessary improvements.
Safer Alternative to Hazardous Products
The best way to reduce HHW is to avoid purchasing hazardous items. Opt for these eco-friendly alternatives instead:
Cleaning: Homemade products, such as lemon, vinegar, and baking soda, can be used as eco-friendly cleaning agents rather than purchasing harmful, ammonia-based products.
Pest Control: Natural items, such as neem oil, can be used to deter pests rather than relying on toxic pesticides.
Lighting: Mercury-free LED bulbs are safer and more energy efficient than CFL bulbs.
Batteries: Using rechargeable batteries with quality chargers helps reduce battery waste.
Paint: Water-based and low-VOC paints are better than solvent-heavy options.
Leftovers: Consider reusing items like leftover paint and cleaners for smaller projects. You can donate such items to local schools, community centers, or share them with your neighbors to reduce landfill pressure. Electronic waste and medicines can be repurposed through take-back programs.
Safety Tips
Follow these safety tips to ensure your family, community, and environment are protected from hazardous wastes.
- Hazardous materials, such as cleaning agents, paints, and other solvents, should never be mixed. There is a high risk of a reaction between chemicals that can release harmful toxins or cause an explosion.
- When handling or disposing of hazardous materials, ensure you wear gloves, goggles, and other protective gear. Make sure to clean or discard these gears as well.
- Education is the first step towards proper waste handling and disposal. Educate your household members and staff about the dangers of hazardous waste and the safe disposal practices.
- Keep first aid kits ready in case of spills, exposure, or accidents. Make sure you have the emergency contact numbers of local hospitals and waste management companies in case of an accident. They will protect your family as well as your community from the effects of spills or exposures.
Hazardous Waste Handling
Homeowners should be fully aware of hazardous wastes at home and manage them safely to protect public health and the environment. Proper disposal of hazardous waste reduces pollution, prevents injuries and infections, and conserves natural resources. Identifying hazardous items at home, storing them safely, and following responsible disposal practices help to minimize the impact on the environment. Utilizing locally available resources and disposal programs helps to streamline the management of hazardous waste and reduce its impact on the planet.