The Best Way to Dispose of Antifreeze

Disposing of chemicals is something many people do incorrectly. Antifreeze is one of those chemicals and should not be thrown in the trash, poured on the ground, or poured down the drain. Antifreeze has a number of negative effects on the environment, and it's toxic to animals and people. If antifreeze seeps into the ground, it contaminates the soil and potentially the water that runs deep underground. This is harmful to the planet and the lives of anyone affected by the contamination. Learning to properly dispose of this chemical toxin is imperative to the safety of the environment and living creatures.

Instructions

• 1

  Place antifreeze in a covered, closed container. Do not leave it anywhere children or animals can access it.

• 2

  Take the container to a landfill that is authorized to dispose of nonhazardous antifreeze. Used antifreeze is a potentially "hazardous" waste, due to its high pH or high lead content in some cases; otherwise, it's deemed "nonhazardous," though still toxic.

• 3

  Although the EPA doesn't regulate antifreeze disposal, it offers a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act hotline -- 800-424-9346 -- with information to help you determine if your antifreeze is considered hazardous. If so, it must be disposed at an EPA-approved facility -- transported with a hazardous material identification number and appropriate packaging.