Certain items should never be thrown away with regular household trash due to their potential to harm the environment and public health. Knowing what these items are and how to dispose of them properly can make a big difference in everyone’s safety. In this post, we will discuss five things that can’t be thrown away in your household trashcan and offer practical tips on how to handle them.
Electronic Waste
Electronic waste (e-waste) includes old cell phones, computers, and two-way radios. These items contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can be harmful if they end up in landfills. Instead of throwing these items in the trash, turn to recycling programs offered by electronics stores or local waste management facilities. Proper disposal of two-way radios and other e-waste ensures that these hazardous materials are safely managed and can even be reused in new products.
Batteries
Batteries, both single-use and rechargeable, contain harmful chemicals like lithium, cadmium, and lead. When batteries end up in landfills, these chemicals can leak into the soil and water supply. To ensure they are disposed of safely, it’s essential to take used batteries to designated recycling centers or participate in battery recycling programs. Some retailers also offer battery recycling services that make it easy to do your part.
Paint and Chemicals
Old paint cans and household chemicals like pesticides, solvents, and cleaning agents should never be thrown away in your household trashcan. These substances can be highly toxic and pose a significant environmental and human health risk. Most communities have hazardous waste collection events where you can safely dispose of these items. Check with your local waste management authority for details on properly discarding these materials.
Medical Waste
Medical waste, including syringes, prescription medications, and other medical supplies, must be disposed of carefully to avoid harming sanitation workers and the public as a whole. Never throw these items in your household trashcan. Instead, use designated sharps disposal containers for needles and follow your community’s guidelines for disposing of medications. Many pharmacies and healthcare facilities offer take-back programs to help you safely eliminate medical waste.
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs)
CFLs are energy-efficient light bulbs that contain small amounts of mercury, which can be harmful if released into the environment. When a CFL breaks or is thrown away improperly, it can release mercury vapor, posing a risk to human health and the environment. Instead of tossing these bulbs in the trash, take your used CFLs to recycling centers or participating retailers that accept them for safe disposal.
Proper disposal of these five items helps protect the environment and public health. You play a vital role in maintaining a cleaner and safer community by understanding these five things that can’t be thrown away in your household trashcan and taking the necessary steps to dispose of them properly. Always check with your local waste management facility for information on correctly disposing of these and other potentially hazardous items.
