HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE

Household hazardous waste (HHW) is a term for products we purchase every day that contain materials that could harm us or the environment if improperly handled. Common products that could be HHW are pesticides, cleaners, paints, stains, personal care products, unwanted medicines, and electronic products. Look for words such as 'warning,' 'caution,' 'flammable,' 'toxic,' 'poison,' etc. on product labels as an indication that the product could become HHW when disposed.. Many of these products are not used up and are stored in homes, basements and garages across Michigan. By making sure products are properly stored, purchased in the quantity needed, used according to manufacturer specifications and the leftovers taken to a local HHW collection, you can protect your family and your community.

Living in Michigan, we are surrounded by one-fourth of the world's fresh water supply. By handling potentially hazardous materials safely, we can help protect this precious resource.

Reduce HHW by:

Checking the label before you buy. If you see a cautionary notice, understand that this material will become a household hazardous waste if not used up properly.
Using the product as the manufacturer instructs. Companies are required to test their products to comply with federal regulations. Directions should be followed to get maximum benefit from the products you use without compromising your safety.
Buying only what you need. Surprisingly, some products cost more to dispose than they do to purchase. Using forethought when purchasing these products may save your community the cost of disposing of them as HHW.
Storing products safely. Children, pets, and others may accidentally injure themselves when products are not safely stored. Make sure potential HHW is stored out of harm's way.

If you have questions about proper handling of household hazardous waste, contact your local HHW program, recycling coordinator, wastewater treatment plant or department of public works. (Much of the above information was taken from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Household Hazardous Waste website.)

RESOURCES FOR COLLECTION PROGRAM OPERATORS

The Michigan Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Roundtable is an informal group of people who operate HHW programs in Michigan. They meet quarterly in Lansing and periodicially provide training for handling hazardous waste and conducting HHW collections. Contact – Cynthia Foster, Kalamazoo County, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , for more information.

U.S. EPA Household Hazardous Waste Resource Page

Michigan Department of Environmental Qualtiy Household Hazardous Waste Page

Talking Trash, a two page brochure published by the Michigan DEQ, outlining what is prhibited from disposal in Michigan's landfills.

What to do with:

Pesticides and Mercury