Household Pollutant Collection

One of the most common and significant sources of chemical pollution in urban areas comes right from individual homes. We normally don’t think of our houses as sources of pollution, but when you consider all of the chemicals under the sink and in the garage, it becomes obvious that a typical home can have more types of potent and toxic chemicals that many industries. Pesticides, fertilizers, solvents, grease, oils, degreasers, gasoline, antifreeze, strong detergents, oil based paints, thinners, and herbicides are just a few common household pollutants.

We tend to store these materials past their shelf life and in locations where they are forgotten until the containers leak of labels fall off. Often these chemicals are poured into common glass or plastic jars that are poorly labeled, if at all.  Sometimes chemicals are mixed together in potentially dangerous blends. 

So how are these typically discarded? Frequently they are put into the regular trash for the trash collectors to pick up. Out of sight, out of mind. But have you ever seen oily trails along the curbs and wondered where they came from?  Chances are they dripped from the refuse trucks as the containers were crushed inside leaking the chemicals onto the street. Another common disposal practice is simply to pour the chemicals down a stormdrain, usually into a drop inlet.  Many people still do not know that every storm drain empties directly into a creek or stream:  it does not go to any type of treatment plant or system.

So what is the responsible way to dispose of household chemicals? First and foremost, do your best to utilize one of many collection events in our area. The Metropolitan Environmental Trust (The M.e.t.) in Tulsa provides for semi-annual collections of household pollutants at the Tulsa fairgrounds. Visit the M.e.t. website for more information. Many GCSA municipalities are members of The M.e.t. and use its collection events as an important means to reduce illicit discharges to their storm sewer systems.

Other GCSA members have their own local household pollutant collection events. Please contact your city to learn more about your local pollutant collection options.

Rev. January 17, 2007