Got old pesticides or paint thinner collecting dust in the garage? TDEC's mobile household hazardous waste collection service is hitting Jefferson and Sumner counties this Saturday, October 18, and it's your chance to get rid of that hazardous clutter responsibly. According to an announcement from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, these events aim to keep potentially dangerous materials out of landfills where they could pose environmental risks.
Citizens from any county can participate, and considering over 25 million pounds of hazardous waste have already been collected through these events, TDEC is pushing for a continued strong turnout. As stated by TDEC Commissioner David Salyers, "This collection service provides an excellent way to responsibly dispose of household hazardous waste, and we want to make it as convenient as possible." Disposing of materials like cleaning fluids and swimming pool chemicals, participants will indirectly be showing their "commitment to environmental protection".
Here's where you can drop off your household hazardous waste: In Jefferson County, head over to the Jefferson County Landfill at 650 Grove Rd., Dandridge, from 8 a.m. to noon. For those closer to Sumner County, visit Moss Wright Park, 705 Caldwell Dr., Goodlettsville, open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Just remember, items like ammunition, electronics, and paint won't be accepted. Needles are okay, but make sure they're in sturdy containers.
While residents can rid of their hazardous home junk at no charge, TDEC did note that businesses and other non-household entities will have to pay for the disposal of their own hazardous waste. An appointment is also necessary. To schedule, simply call (615) 643-3170. Tennesseans are also encouraged to find local BOPAE collection sites for items like batteries and electronic scrap, which are less hazardous and can be handled by city or county solid waste departments. Safely packing and transporting these materials is crucial, so use those sturdy boxes lined with newspapers or plastic, keeping safety in mind, especially around kids and pets.
