Did you know that Blenheim’s Hazardous Waste Centre accepts leftover household chemicals?

Council’s Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas said it was not uncommon to have unused or partly used chemicals stored at home, most often household chemicals.

“It’s important to use all chemicals with care and to keep children and animals safe from harm, away from them.

“Always read the label, follow the instructions and use protective equipment if required. When you come to dispose of household chemicals, do the right thing as otherwise the impact can be negative on your health and our environment.”

Mr Lucas said Council’s Hazardous Waste Centre, run by contractor JBL, will accept any household chemicals, labelled or without labels, at no charge. This includes paint and solvents, spot removers, carpet and furniture cleaners, floor and furniture polishes and glues, and other hazardous materials. The centre also accepts commercial quantities for recycling or safe disposal – these may incur a fee.

Some types of hazardous waste, in domestic quantities, are also accepted at all regional transfer stations. Only items on Council’s online list can be deposited here and these must be clearly labelled.

“Much of the hazardous waste is sent away for recycling so not only do you help ensure our environment is safe for future generations by keeping hazardous waste out of the landfill, you also play your part in enabling the recycling of the materials.”

Key advice for safely disposing of household chemicals:

• Check the label to see if it is safe to put in your household rubbish (red top bin), needs to go into landfill or should disposed of in a managed way
• Some shops accept products for recycling and disposal; ask at the shop where you bought the product and, if you can, return the product to them
• Never put flammable, corrosive or poisonous chemicals into your household rubbish or recycling bin
• Do not pour chemicals down the drain; keep our waterways clean

“It is important to know how to keep yourself, your family, the community and our environment safe. This makes for safer homes and a healthier environment for us all,” Mr Lucas said.

For more information including a full list of the types of hazardous waste accepted, go to Council’s website: www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/recycling-and-waste/hazardous-waste

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