Proper waste disposal is essential for maintaining a clean and safe environment. While it might be tempting to toss everything into the trash bin, there are certain items that should never be disposed of this way. Improper disposal of these materials can harm the environment, pose health risks, and even lead to legal penalties. A guide to the top items you should never put in your trash bin and the reasons why is what we at Mickey’s Carting would like to discuss today.
What are You Not Supposed to Throw Away in the Trash?
1) Hazardous Chemicals. Household hazardous waste (HHW) includes items like paint, paint thinners, motor oil, pesticides, and cleaning agents. These substances can be toxic, flammable, or corrosive, making them dangerous for both people and the environment. When thrown in the trash, hazardous chemicals can leak and contaminate soil, water sources, and air quality. Instead of tossing them in the bin, take hazardous chemicals to designated disposal centers or participate in local HHW collection events.
2) Electronic Waste (E-Waste). Electronics such as old computers, cell phones, televisions, and batteries contain harmful components like lead, mercury, and cadmium. These materials can leach into the ground and water when disposed of in a landfill, causing significant environmental damage. Additionally, many electronics can be recycled, and some contain valuable metals that can be recovered. Check for local e-waste recycling programs or drop-off locations to dispose of your old electronics responsibly.
3) Batteries. Batteries, especially rechargeable ones, contain chemicals that can be harmful if not disposed of properly. Alkaline batteries can often be thrown away with regular trash, but other types, like lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, and lead-acid batteries, should never be disposed of in the trash. These batteries can leak harmful substances or even cause fires if punctured. Most communities offer battery recycling programs, often at electronics stores or recycling centers.
4) Medications. Expired or unused medications should never be thrown in the trash or flushed down the toilet. Pharmaceuticals can contaminate water supplies and harm aquatic life when not disposed of properly. Many pharmacies and local law enforcement agencies offer medication take-back programs or provide secure drop-off boxes for safe disposal.
5) Fluorescent Light Bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs, including compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), contain small amounts of mercury, which is toxic to both humans and wildlife. When these bulbs break in a landfill, they can release mercury into the environment. Many hardware stores and recycling centers offer recycling programs specifically for fluorescent bulbs, ensuring they are disposed of safely.
6) Aerosol Cans. Aerosol cans, whether full or empty, can be hazardous. If not completely empty, they may contain pressurized gas that can explode under certain conditions, such as when compacted in a landfill. Some aerosol cans may also contain harmful chemicals. Most local recycling programs accept empty aerosol cans, but it’s essential to follow proper disposal guidelines to avoid accidents.
7) Glass. While glass is recyclable, it should not be thrown away with regular trash, especially if it’s broken. Broken glass can cause injury to sanitation workers and wildlife. Many curbside recycling programs accept glass bottles and jars, but broken glass should be taken to a recycling center in a sealed container.
8) Yard Waste. In many places, it’s illegal to dispose of yard waste like leaves, grass clippings, and branches in the regular trash. Yard waste can be composted or taken to a local recycling center where it can be turned into mulch. Composting yard waste is an environmentally friendly way to recycle organic materials and enrich your garden.
Waste Management & More in Amagansett, Aquebogue, Baiting Hollow, Calverton, Cutchogue, East Hampton, East Hampton North, Greenport, Jamesport, Laurel, Mattituck, Montauk, Nassau Point, Northville, Northwest Harbor & Riverhead in East End of Long Island, New York
Disposing of waste responsibly is crucial for protecting the environment and public health. By keeping these items out of your trash bin and disposing of them through appropriate channels, you can help reduce pollution, conserve resources, and ensure a safer community. Always check local guidelines for proper disposal methods to make sure you’re handling your waste correctly.
