Some products are obsolete because they are too dangerous. DDT and other pesticides provide a good example. They are dangerous to release into the environment, but are also ingredients with important uses for industry. An example is old motor oil. It is commonly viewed as a waste, but can be reused as fuel or recycled by re-refining it for use as a lubricant.
Industries can play a vital role in reducing hazardous substance consumption.
New technologies are being developed, used and shared through private and public ventures. One-day disposal events are a good way to reduce HHW stockpiles in area dwellings without extra costs. The MDI League of Towns sponsored a regional one-day event on October 26, 1996. From 9 AM to 1 PM residents of surrounding towns brought their HHW to the Somesville fire station. More than 8,000 gallons of used motor oil, pesticides, oil-based paint, and cleaning materials were collected.