Environment DEC
From the February 2007 issue
DEC Announces $2.4 Million to Help with Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Disposal
DEC recently announced nearly $2.4 million in grants to 21 municipalities and solid waste authorities to promote the collection and proper disposal of household hazardous wastes. Funding for the grants is provided by the New York State Environmental Protection Fund (EPF).
Common Products Contain Serious Hazards
Many commonly used household hazardous waste products contain some of the same chemical components that are otherwise regulated as hazardous waste when generated by industry. These household products can pose hazards to both consumers and the environment if they are improperly handled, stored and discarded. The best approach to managing household hazardous waste is through local community educational outreach programs that keep residents informed of how to safely and properly dispose of hazardous products.
Municipal collection programs ensure that cleaners, pool chemicals and other hazardous household products are disposed of properly
Since 1995, New York State has committed more than $23.8 million to help communities safely collect household hazardous wastes to prevent future environmental problems. Municipal collection programs remove household cleaners, paint and related products, automobile maintenance wastes, pesticides, batteries, and hobby and pool chemicals.
Short- and Long-term Programs Covered
Municipal household hazardous waste programs can include single-day collection events, or the establishment of permanent collection facilities. The 21 communities receiving grants will provide 57 single-day collection events and also 560 additional days of operation at three permanent collection facilities. Over the past five years, approximately 48 million pounds (24,000 tons) of household hazardous waste has been collected by local governments and prevented from entering the environment.
Household hazardous waste grants provide 50 percent of the costs associated with the household waste collection and disposal programs, with local governments providing the balance of the costs. For additional information on State assistance for household hazardous waste programs, municipalities or public authorities, contact DEC's Bureau of Solid Waste, Reduction and Recycling at (518) 402-8705 or visit the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) web page on DEC's website.
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