Guide to Hazardous Waste Disposal: Proper Disposal of Dangerous Rubbish to Protect the Environment

May 24, 2023
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Guide to Hazardous Waste Disposal: Proper Disposal of Dangerous Rubbish to Protect the Environment

Before you throw away your trash, it’s crucial to consider what it contains and where it’s headed. The correct disposal of hazardous waste is crucial to the future of our country, yet it’s often misunderstood or disregarded. Certain types of waste require specific management methods, and failure to comply may result in additional expenses or council fines. To assist you in disposing of your waste safely, our waste experts at Blu Skips have compiled the following guide.

 

Battery Disposal 

Improperly discarded batteries have caused chemical fires in skip bins across the country. This is because batteries contain toxic and corrosive chemicals like lead and cadmium. Automotive and Lithium-ion batteries, which are found in electronics, must be disposed of differently to prevent the battery’s toxins from polluting the soil and groundwater. Some batteries contain sulphur, which can affect vital human and animal organs like the heart and kidneys. Recycling is highly recommended. Check with your local council or state guidelines as most cities offer private battery collection services for the safe disposal of this hazardous waste.

 

Electronic Waste

Electronic waste is a significant environmental issue worldwide, and it is no different in Australia. E-Waste is particularly dangerous due to the toxic heavy metals and chemicals that naturally seep from the metals into the ground and groundwater. Computers typically contain beryllium oxide, a substance that leads to significant respiratory damage. Please contact your local certified e-waste collection agency for the proper disposal of hazardous waste.


Petrol and Oil-Based Products

Pouring these chemicals down a drain is a recipe for environmental and health disaster. Placing these hazardous chemicals in a skip bin puts many people at risk. Skip bin truck drivers and waste management workers could be exposed to life-threatening situations. These scenarios can be avoided simply by checking with your council for their disposal guidelines.


Paint Disposal 

Whether it’s for the kids’ art projects or your house renovations, we’ve all experienced the toxic odour of paint fumes. It’s easy to understand why this hazardous waste can’t be disposed of normally. Paint in landfills is a massive problem for Australia. Paint products, including partially used paint pots, must never be placed into a skip bin from a Blu Skips supplier. The chemicals used to manufacture paint are highly toxic to waterways and soil. Council rubbish collections do not accept paint. You can find assistance with paint waste disposal at your local council.

 

Mercury: A Hazardous Substance

Mercury and all its compounds are toxic. Exposure to excessive levels can cause permanent damage or fatal injury to 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 skip bin or a regular council rubbish collection. Instead, contact your local council for proper disposal guidelines.

 

As we all strive to be more environmentally conscious, we need to think twice before throwing away our rubbish. Proper care of hazardous waste disposal is our best defence against environmental and health disasters caused by our waste. For safe and secure waste disposal, consider hiring a skip bin from Blu Skips.