I was wondering how, if it is even possible to recycle aeresol containers. I opened the valve until I could no longer hear the hiss of the propellent and then I threw it in with the other recyclables (We have comingled recycling). Is that all I have to do or is there more. I live in Monmouth county, NJ.
2007-08-04 12:56:06 · 2 answers · asked by Zero 3 in Environment ➔ Green Living
You can purchase an aerosol puncturing system from an industrial supplier for around $600. In order to dispose of aerosol paints, you have to prove the canister is empty. If it has more than an inch of paint in it, the can is a hazardous material (EPA says so).
Empty cans can be sent to a scrap metal recycler. Ask them what their requirements are before you send it to make sure that you do not waste your trip.
2007-08-07 07:36:16 · answer #1 · answered by Christmas Light Guy 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You need to contact the county office of recycling where you live. What you did may be against their rules. The USEPA rules say that you must split or puncture the can to prove that it has no propellent. This is what industries have to do. In some jurisdictions they don't allow recycling aerosol cans in the local trash because the contents may be hazardous waste and more importantly explosive, even if the hissing stops through the regular valve. Call your local group.
2007-08-06 14:29:19 · answer #2 · answered by Peter Boiter Woods 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋