Environment DEC
From the September 2004 issue
Grants Announced for Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste
Nearly $3.8 million in grants will go to 39 municipalities and solid waste authorities to promote the collection and proper disposal of household hazardous waste. The grant funding is being provided through the New York State Environmental Protection Fund (EPF).
"Ensuring that hazardous materials are handled and disposed of in the proper environmentally sound manner is critical for the continued safety of New Yorkers and the health of our natural resources," DEC Commissioner Erin Crotty said.
Hazardous Household Products
Many commonly used household products contain some of the same chemical components that otherwise are regulated as hazardous waste when generated by industry. These products can pose hazards to the consumer and to the environment if they are not properly handled, stored or discarded. The best approach to managing household hazardous waste is through local community educational outreach programs that inform residents about how to safely and properly dispose of household products.
Community Collections
Househouse hazardous material collection
days throughout New York State remove
hazardous materials from the environment
Since 1995, New York State has committed more than $19.2 million to help communities safely collect household hazardous waste 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.
Municipal household hazardous waste programs can include single-day collection events, or the establishment of permanent collection facilities. The 39 communities receiving state EPF grants will hold 157 single-day collection events and an additional 648 days of operation at 3 permanent collection facilities. Household hazardous waste grants provide 50 percent of the costs associated with waste collection and disposal programs, with local governments providing the balance of program costs.
