Many products that enhance convenience in our daily lives contain hazardous materials. Household hazardous waste (HHW) includes a wide range of items such as batteries, cleaning products, pesticides, paints, and electronic devices. Proper disposal of HHW is crucial to prevent risks to human health and our environment.
Improper disposal of HHW in curbside landfill, recycle, compost bins/carts, or down the drain is not only illegal, but can result in dangerous pollution that is harmful to our communities. When HHW is not managed properly, these chemicals and hazardous products can end up in our soils, groundwater and atmosphere, which leads to pollution that can seriously compromise the health and safety of our city.
Alameda County offers residents safe HHW disposal options through designated one-day collection events and convenient drop-off centers at no additional cost. Designated Alameda County HHW facilities are equipped to accept a wide range of hazardous materials and ensure that they are handled, stored, and transported in accordance with environmental regulations. Visit www.StopWaste.org/HHW for more details on convenient one-day collection events and drop-off locations. Remember, do not dispose of HHW in any of your curbside carts!
Minimize the generation of HHW by choosing environmentally-friendly products with less toxic ingredients and following proper storing and usage guidelines established by manufacturers.
As individuals, we all have a role to play in ensuring the proper disposal of HHW. By educating ourselves about the hazards of household chemicals and utilizing community resources for safe disposal, we can safeguard the health of our community and preserve the environment for future generations.
