How to Protect the Environment From Hazardous Waste

Hazardous wastes are any materials that can significantly harm human health or the environment. They include noxious liquids, heavy metals, poisonous gases, raw sewage, pesticides, cleaning products and used medical equipment. Many hazardous materials occur as a byproduct of construction or industry. Consumers can take several steps to minimize the amount of hazardous waste entering our environment.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid disposable batteries whenever possible. Although modern disposable batteries are significantly less toxic than their older counterparts, they do contain mercury and other heavy metals. Choose rechargeable batteries for your telephone, camera or computer.

• 2

  Consult your local waste management agency for regional guidelines regarding the disposal of e-waste, or waste from electrical equipment. Your city or county may offer specific regulations regarding ways to reclaim, recycle, or safely dispose of hazardous e-waste.

• 3

  Buy organic products whenever possible. USDA-certified organic plants are grown without the use of hazardous synthetic pesticides. Clothing manufacturers also offer organic textiles, which are made from pesticide-free plants and dyed using nontoxic colorants.

• 4

  Use nontoxic cleaning supplies and paints in your own home. Cleaning products containing bleach can release dioxins and other harsh pollutants into the environment. Vinegar, baking soda, water, and plant-based oils are effective, nontoxic cleaning products.

• 5

  Minimize your use of plastic. The plastics industry is responsible for a considerable portion of the world's hazardous waste. By choosing wood, glass and other sustainable materials instead of plastic, you can help to keep byproducts of the plastics industry out of our air, soil and waterways.

• 6

  Properly dispose of any mercury-containing equipment in your home. Contact your local waste management agency to find out how you can safely dispose of compact fluorescent (CFL) and other kinds of lightbulbs. Old-fashioned mercury thermometers and batteries must also be handled carefully. Your town's own disposal regulations may vary.

• 7

  Donate to nonprofit organizations such as Greenpeace, Eco-Logic, and the Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment. These organizations help to combat hazardous waste and the companies responsible for its production. Each organization offers a specific method for protecting the environment from hazardous waste.