When we think of hazardous waste, we usually think of large factories manufacturing or using exotic chemicals, sometimes disposing of waste through huge pipes or dumping poisonous sludge into a river. We seldom think of hazardous waste as something we find in our own homes.
Many household products contain the same chemicals produced and used by industry.
Some of the more common household hazardous waste include, insecticides, herbicides, cleaners, solvents, paints, fuels, batteries and an assortment of automotive products. The environmentally hazardous products from a single home may seem insignificant, but when thousands of homes use similar products and dispose of them down the drain, or place them into the household garbage container, the combined effect becomes a major problem. Improper disposal allows these materials to enter the environment directly, with the potential of affecting water quality, wildlife and people. DON'TS Think carefully before buying a product. Do not dump leftover product.