In honor of RecycleMania, here is a list of common household/office items that should never go into the trash and what you can do with them instead:
- Batteries. No, just no. Batteries are full of hazardous chemicals that are extremely damaging to water supplies and pose serious health and environmental risks. Our lovely Facilities team will collect any used batteries from your office and dispose of them properly. Got lots of batteries at home? Check with your local Home Depot or Best Buy for free drop-off.
- Light bulbs. Sorry folks, light bulbs can’t go into the recycling bin. Fluorescent bulbs, including CFLs, contain toxic chemicals and need to be disposed of properly. For details on where you can safely dispose CFLs in your area, check out RecycleABulb.com. When in doubt, always check the packaging for disposal information.
- Unused or expired prescription drugs. You might be tempted to toss your meds down the drain or in the trash. BAD IDEA. Contact your local police department for drug take-back events.
- Brita water filters. Water filters are an awesome way to reduce the amount of bottled water consumed, but what do you do with the filters when they’re all used up? Preserve Products will recycle those old filters into toothbrushes, razors, and other household items. You can either mail in your filters or drop them off at one of their collection points.
- Cosmetics. Did you know that your conventional cosmetics contain chemicals that are not removed by water treatment? Also, the containers can’t be recycled, but there’s good news! Bring your containers to any Origins, Aveda, M.A.C., or Kiehl’s and they will be disposed of properly.
- For safe disposal of other hazardous household items, check out the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s website.
Curious about what can be recycled on campus? Check out the Green Team recycling guidelines!
Source: 19 Things You Should Never, Ever Throw In the Trash!!