To schedule an educational presentationwith Randie the Recycling Raccoon on Household Hazardous Waste, Compost/Vermi-Composting and 4-R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle & Rebuy) email smcqueen@cstx.gov.
What is Household Hazardous Waste?
Household Hazardous Wastes (HHW) are those wastes produced in our households that are hazardous in nature, but are not regulated as hazardous waste, under federal and state laws. Included are such items as old paints and paint related products, pesticides, pool chemicals, drain cleaners, and degreasers and other car care products. Such consumer waste products, if carelessly managed can, and frequently do, create environmental and public health concerns. For a more complete list of common household hazardous waste items please click here.
What can you do with your HHW?
Source reduction of potential HHW is the first step. Here are some quick tips for reducing household hazardous waste:
1. Buy the least toxic product available (avoid oil-base paints and products that contain chlorine).
2. Switch to non-hazardous alternatives, if available (baking soda is a good cleanser and freshner).
3. Buy only the amount you need. Purchasing products in "bulk" is not always a better value.
4. Share what you can't use with family, friends and neighbors.
When reduction or reuse isn't possible, securely pack and transport materials in their original containers to the regional household hazardous waste collection event. Sort and pack chemicals separately, being cautious to avoid spills. Never smoke while handling hazardous materials and never mix chemicals.
To make your home safer, BVSWMA sponsors TWO collection events each year. The collection event is provided FREE to the residents of the Brazos Valley (7 county region) as a means to safely dispose of household hazardous items. Ammunition, explosives, radioactive waste, tires, compressed gas cylinders, and household garbage will not be accepted. The next collection event is scheduled for:
Date : November 14, 2009 - 7am - 2pm
PHARMACEUTICALS NOW BEING ACCEPTED
Future Dates:
April 24, 2010
University Services Building
Enter from Hwy. 30 East pass Veteran's Park on the left after Veteran's Park
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April 2007 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event
Goals
Our goal is to increase public awareness regarding HHW and to dispose of the maximum amount of hazardous materials at these collection events. Since the program began in 1994, over 17,188 people have disposed of more than 763,066 pounds of hazardous waste and 112 tons of computers. In May 2003 the first E-waste collection was held and almost 15,000 pounds of computers, monitors and keyboards were collected. BVSWMA will continue to hold these HHW events in hopes that the Brazos Valley household residents will bring their hazardous waste to our FREE Household Hazardous Waste collection events.
Hazardous Waste at the April 2007 Collection
AWARDS
September 2006 - Brazos Valley Council of Governments Outstanding Service
2006 - Recycling Alliance of Texas Outstanding Sustainability Program Award
December 2006 - Keep Brazos Beautiful Can Do Award
July 2007 Keep Texas Beautiful Governor's Achievement Certificate
November 2007 - Keep America Beautiful National Distinguished Service Citation Award
March 2008 - Keep Brazos Beautiful Distinguished Partner in Beauty Award
April 2008 - Keep Texas Beautiful Regional Award for Household Hazardous Waste Program
June 2009 - Keep Texas Beautiful Regional Award for Household Hazardous Waste Program
This program is always looking for volunteers to assist at collection events. If you are interested in volunteering or have questions regarding Household Hazardous Waste or the collection events, please call Shelia McQueen, Program Coordinator at (979) 764-3806 or call the HHW Hotline at (979) 764-3809.