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What Not to Throw Away: A Guide to Responsible disposal
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Protecting the surroundings starts with knowing what to keep out of the trash.
It seems like every day there’s a new regulation about what we can and cannot discard. While it can be confusing,being mindful of what we throw away is crucial for protecting our environment and ensuring public safety.
Recycling programs have expanded considerably since the start of the century, with most homes now having dedicated bins for recyclable materials. Some states even offer deposit refunds for cans and bottles, incentivizing recycling and helping consumers earn back some cash.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Certain items can be harmful to the environment or pose risks if not disposed of correctly. from batteries to electronics, knowing how to handle these items is essential for responsible waste management.
EPArecommendation: send used alkaline and zinc carbon batteries to battery recyclers or check with your local or state solid waste authority.
Some Batteries Are Considered Hazardous Waste
Closeup of a lot of color AA batteries on a shining yellow background.
While many people casually toss batteries in the trash, it’s crucial to recognize that certain types, including alkaline and zinc carbon batteries, require special handling according to the EPA. Car batteries,with their “Core charge,” are already commonly returned to auto shops for proper recycling.
Other Items to Keep Out of the Trash
Beyond batteries, numerous other items should never end up in your household trash can. These range from electronics to certain household chemicals.
11 Items Illegal To Throw Away In South Carolina
These items are illegal to throw away in Washington state. Check with your county for household hazardous waste collection events. Some of these items might potentially be disposed of at such an event.
Gallery Credit: Patti Banner
