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Modern lifestyles generate many types of toxic wastes that must
be disposed of. This doesn't always have to be the case, though.
Purchasing the least-toxic product and the minimal amount to
do the job will help reduce harmful waste products. If you do
have hazardous materials, then there are ways to dispose of it
yourself or you can take it to one of the many recylcing/disposal
operations around town.
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What
is Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)?
It is waste that is toxic but is not regulated by federal or
state laws. HHW can include paint and paint products, some solvents,
pesticides, herbicides, cleaning products, drain cleaners, car
care products, and electronic equipment, to name just a few.
Why
should I be concerned about HHW?
These
products pose a serious threat to our environment if not disposed
of properly. By throwing HHW on the ground, down a drain,
or otherwise not disposing of it properly, they can seep
into the ground and mix with
groundwater, polluting your water supply.
How
can I avoid having to dispose of HHW?
The
easiest way to not worry about hazardous waste disposal is
to not buy a toxic product in the first place! There is a
wide variety of non-toxic and natural products available today,
from toiletries to cleaners to automotive products. Another
way to eliminate disposal worries is to use all of the product
that you buy. Put another coat of paint on! Or, give it away
to a community group or neighbor who has use for it.
How
do I dispose of HHW?
The city's solid waste division holds household hazardous waste
disposal days several times a year. Call them at 307-721-5279
for more information.
- Paint: Apply another
coat of paint to use it all up, or give it away. If you
still have some left, open the can or spread it out along
with sawdust or kitty litter. Let it air dry in a well ventilated
area. You can also take the lid off, let it dry, and put
it out with the trash. Keep the lid off so the trashmen
know the paint is dry and safe to dispose of. Remember that
water-based paint dries faster and is less toxic than oil-based
paint.
- Solvents: Reuse solvents such as paint thinner by
allowing the solids to sink to the bottom, then draining the
clear liquid into a well-marked container for reuse. Some solvent
solids can be dried, wrapped in newspaper, and thrown in the
normal trash.
- Additional disposal methods: see the EPA's
Household Waste site.
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