What to do that Pesky Household Waste
The Newberg Graphic, June 4, 2005
If you waited in line at the Yamhill County Household Hazardous Waste event you probably had some time to think about why you were there. Due to the excellent turnout and large volume of material collected, some people found themselves in line for close to an hour. The good news is that the event was a great success! 106 tons of hazardous material was collected, making Yamhill County safer for all of us.
How can you avoid long lines at future Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection events? Take some time now to learn about alternatives to the hazardous products found in most homes.
The Hazardless Home Handbook is a helpful guide with detailed instructions for proper disposal of, and alternatives to, hazardous wastes that are commonly found in homes. This guide is available at Newberg Garbage Service or by calling Yamhill County Solid Waste.
Latex Paint accounted for 30% of the hazardous waste collected at the recent HHW event. There are a few things you can do to avoid that pesky paint pile-up in the future. When buying paint for a project, take careful measurements to avoid buying too much. If you do have some left, try to use it up on other projects or give it to a friend who likes the color. Consider donating large amounts to a school or non-profit. If there is just a little left in the bottom of the can, leave the lid off and let it dry out. Alternatively, add kitty litter or sawdust to absorb moisture in the can. Paint cans that are dry or solidified can safely go in the trashcan.
Paint strippers, stains, and oil based paint are also hazardous and require proper disposal. For non-toxic alternatives, call Metro Recycling Information.
Over 10 tons of Pesticides and Fertilizers were collected in Yamhill County. Compost can reduce your dependence on fertilizers and Lady Bugs love aphids! For more information on Natural Gardening and alternative pest controls, contact Yamhill County Solid Waste.
Reduce toxic cleaners in your home. Try baking soda or vinegar as a general household cleaner. Find other ideas in the Hazardless Home Handbook or by calling the Metro Recycling Info.
Newberg Garbage Service would like to thank everyone that attended the Household Hazardous Waste Event for disposing of their hazardous waste responsibly. You have helped to ensure the safety of your garbage haulers, your community, and the environment.
For more info or to order copies of booklets, please call:
Newberg Garbage Service 503-538-1388
Yamhill County Solid Waste 503-434-7445
Metro Recycling Info 503-234-3000
By: Martha Hovis, Recycling Coordinator
Newberg Garbage & Recycling Service
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