Hazardous Waste

Hazardous Household Items

Got Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)?

Toxic household products can lurk in many corners of our homes – pesticides in the garden shed, motor oil or paint cans in the garage, worn out fluorescent bulbs and chemical cleaners under the sink… the average household contains 3 to 10 gallons of household toxics! When these products are left over, unwanted or unusable, they turn into potentially harmful waste, also known as Household Hazardous Waste (HHW).
Weed Killer

Obvious Toxics Products

It is easy to imagine why certain household toxics – for example, a bottle of weed killer or a canister of diesel fuel – might pose a danger to our families and the environment. 

Inhaling fumes and skin contact can damage our health, especially that of our children. Throwing these products into the trash or pouring them down the sink or into a storm drain pollutes our soil, groundwater, rivers and bay, and can harm wildlife.

Hazardous Batteries

Hidden Toxics Products

Other household hazardous waste is less obvious in its toxicity. For example, electronics such as computers and cell phones, batteries, fluorescent light bulbs and thermostats are safe while in use, but turn into toxic waste when discarded. They contain heavy metals like mercury and cadmium, and other harmful chemicals that are released into the environment when these products are crushed and buried in the landfill.

Protect yourself and the environment: avoid hazardous products and choose less toxic alternatives instead!

Never dispose of household hazardous waste in the garbage, sink or a storm drain! Instead take these items to one of SVR’s facilities for safe disposal or recycling.
Paint Cans

Safe Disposal and Recycling of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)

Household Hazardous Wastes (HHW) are leftover, unwanted, unusable or spent household products that contain toxic ingredients. These products must be disposed of properly to protect the health of our families and the environment.

For more information on acceptable items and locations, download a free All Regulations brochure:

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