News Releases - 2003

Illinois EPA Initiates Mercury Collections and Educational Programs

Springfield, Ill. -- In a continuing effort to rid hazardous materials from the environment, the Illinois EPA is collecting mercury and other hazardous educational materials from schools throughout the state. The materials are then safely transported for proper recycling or disposal.

In November, the Illinois EPA kicked off the mercury initiative in Robbins, in a pilot collection. In that event, in excess of two 55-gallon drums of mercury and other chemicals were collected. Thus far, collections have also been scheduled for schools in Adams, Fulton, Henderson, Knox, Logan, Mason, McDonough, Menard and Warren Counties. Inventories and applications from additional schools are being evaluated and will be scheduled this spring.

“These collections are an important component in the Illinois EPA's effort to make our schools safer," said Illinois EPA Director Renee Cipriano. “If these materials are being handled or disposed of improperly, they can pose a risk to students, staff and the environment.”

Since the Illinois EPA is funding these collections, the money saved by the districts can be applied to other educational programs.

To be eligible for participation in collections, school staff must attend one of the IEPA sponsored Safe Chemicals in Schools Workshops, which are co-sponsored by the Great Lakes Regional Pollution Prevention Roundtable and Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools.

Staff from Illinois EPA, Illinois Department of Public Health, Illinois State Board of Education and Illinois Waste Management Research Center present information to help schools deal with leftover or waste chemicals that may still be on their premises. The workshops help teachers and other staff members identify and find alternatives to hazardous materials typically used for teaching purposes, such as in science labs, art rooms and shop classes. These chemicals may be dangerous because of their toxic, flammable or reactive properties.

More information on the Agency’s Green Schools initiative and the workshops is available on the web at: http://www.epa.state.il.us/green-illinois/green-schools/index.html