Before you throw old trash in the trash, you need to consider what it is and where it goes. Proper disposal of hazardous waste is critical to our country's future and is unfortunately massively misunderstood or completely ignored.
Not everything can be put to the side of the road for garbo to collect. Some types of waste require special waste management techniques, or you risk additional costs for renting containers or fines from the municipal authority. Our waste experts at Local Skip Bins Hire have created the following guide to help you manage your waste safely and better.
Batteries and battery disposal
Accidentally discarded batteries have been known to cause chemical fires in Australian dumpsters across the country. This is because batteries contain toxic and corrosive chemicals such as lead and cadmium. Automotive and lithium-ion batteries found in electronics must be disposed of differently to prevent battery toxins from entering soil and groundwater supplies.
Some batteries contain sulphur, which affects vital human and animal organs such as the heart and kidneys, so we strongly encourage recycling. Some modern versions of batteries may be made of zinc and magnesium. Consult your local state or council guidelines as different states and cities have different laws. Most cities have private battery collection services for the safe disposal of this hazardous waste.
Paint yourself green
Whether it's children's art projects or renovating your home, we've all experienced the toxic smell of paint fumes. It is easy to see why this hazardous waste cannot be disposed of normally. Landfill paint is a huge problem for Australia. Under no circumstances should lacquer products be placed in a container provided by the Local Skip Bins Hire supplier.
This also includes partially used paint containers. The chemicals used to make the paint are highly toxic to waterways and soil. Paint is never accepted in wheelie bins for regular municipal waste collection. Help with the disposal of paint waste can be found at any municipal office.
Electronic waste
E-waste has quickly become a major environmental problem worldwide and in Australia. E-waste is particularly dangerous because of the toxic heavy metals and chemicals that naturally leach from metals into soil and groundwater. Computers usually contain beryllium oxide, a substance that leads to significant respiratory damage. Contact a local certified e-waste collection agency to dispose of this hazardous waste.
Mercury is dangerous
Mercury and all its compounds are toxic, and exposure to excessive amounts can permanently damage or fatally injure the brain and kidneys. Mercury is commonly found in old medical thermometers, decorative wall hangers, fluorescent lights and computer monitors. Although only trace amounts are found in these items, mercury should never be placed in a container or regular municipal waste. Instead, check with your local council for proper disposal.
Gasoline and petroleum based products
Pouring these chemicals down the drain is a recipe for environmental and health disaster. Placing these dangerous chemicals in a container puts many other people at risk. Truck drivers and waste management workers could be exposed to life-threatening situations. These scenarios can easily be avoided by checking with your council for disposal instructions.
Think twice before you throw away your trash
As we all make a concerted effort to be green, we must think twice before throwing away our trash. Proper disposal of hazardous waste is the best line of defense we have against environmental and health disasters caused by our waste. Rent a container with Local Skip Bins Hire for safe and secure waste disposal.