Environmental Progress - Spring 2001

No Latex Paint, Please.

Disposal costs, demands high, actual risk low

The IEPA's popular Household Hazardous Waste Program works with local governments to divert residential waste materials with hazardous characteristics from local solid waste landfills. Demand for this service far exceeds state resources Cost-containment features have been implemented over the years to increase efficiency, but demand continues to rise.

At all collections, paint is the most common material turned in. Today's latex (water based) paint has a very low level of toxicity.

Disposing of it at household hazardous waste collections is very expensive. Therefore, the IEPA is encouraging people with unwanted latex paint to use other disposal options. Some of these are:

Keep painting

What better place for that last pint of paint but right up there on the wall where it blends in perfectly with the paint you just put up there. It's a little extra work, but you'll be rid of that extra paint for good. Simply let the empty can dry, then recycle or dispose of it.

Paint something else

An old piece of cardboard, some scrap lumber, the inside of the garage. The alley-side of the back fence. Just about anywhere would probably work to use up that last bit of paint. Again, let the can dry and recycle or dispose of it.

Soak It Up With Cat Pan Filler

Cat pan filler (which is highly absorbent), sand, shredded paper or just about anything that will absorb moisture will work. Just add the absorbent to the can, mix it up and wait a bit. When the liquid is absorbed, remove the absorbent/paint material, or dispose of it as is. You may be able to empty the can, dry it out, and recycle it.

Share It -- Offer Your Paint to Someone Else

Look around and you may find somebody who needs to paint a small area. Some schools or local theatres will take some small amounts of paint for scenery.

Or Save It For Later

If you save paint for later, try covering the opening with plastic wrap first, then make sure the lid fits securely. Then turn the paint can upside down, creating a tight seal that keeps the paint fresh to use again.

Spring Household Collections Announced

Citizens can drop off common hazardous products

Twelve Household Hazardous Waste collection events were scheduled between April and June 2001. Some events already have been held. Dates and locations for the remainder include:

One day collections operate from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on scheduled Saturdays. In addition, long-term collection centers are located at Naperville and Rockford. Phone ahead to determine availability and hours of operation.

The HHW Collection schedule can also be found on the Agency's web page.

For additional information, call the waste reduction unit of the IEPA at (217) 785-8604