BEFORE YOU PURCHASE…Do you need it?
If possible, use elbow grease instead of chemicals – i.e., use a plunger
or a plumber’s snake instead of a chemical drain opener.
If possible, avoid using the most toxic chemicals, usually contained in furniture strippers, turpentine, lighter fluid, paint thinner, nail-polish remover, fuels, lubricating oils, furniture polishes, spot removers, glues, paints, wood finishes. Words such as corrosive, flammable, reactive, toxic, danger, poison, combustible, petroleum, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chlorinated solvents, and mercury biocides are all indicators of a potentially harmful product
If you need it:
• Ask your neighbors if they have any leftovers.
• Seek the least hazardous products, such as water-based (latex) paints, adhesives, cleaners, finishes and avoid solvent-based products.
• See Household Hazardous Waste Disposal and Alternatives Chart: http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/dshm/redrecy/hhwcht.pdf
• Hazardous Products in the Home: Virtual Tour and Description: http://www.epa.gov/grtlakes/seahome/housewaste/house/mainmenu.htm
Alternatives:
• Adhesives -- Use a water-based or latex adhesive.
• Batteries -- Choose rechargeable batteries (removable, so they can be recycled) and mercury-free batteries when possible.
• Cleaners -- Choose soap or detergent-based cleaners when possible. Avoid nonwater-soluable and corrosive cleaners when others offer an effective substitute.
• Household Pesticides -- Look for ways to reduce your need for these products through appropriate cleaning and maintenance habits. Explore alternatives to chemical pest control. URI CE GreenShare Program; URI CE Master Gardener Hotline 1 - 800 - 448-1011, Monday - Thursday 9am - 2 pm.
• Floor and Wood-finish strippers -- Use a detergent or water-based stripper.
• Paint Stripper -- Use sandpaper, a scraper, or heat gun for small jobs.
• Wood preservative -- Use a water-sealing coating.Read labels. Words such as corrosive, flammable, reactive, toxic, danger, poison, combustible, petroleum, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chlorinated solvents, and mercury biocides are all indicators of a potentially harmful product. If possible, avoid them.
• Buy the appropriate product for the task – ask a shopkeeper for help selecting.
• Buy only the amount that you need and no more. New technology in paint matching has made stocking up on your favorite color unnecessary.
Heavy metals, acid and alkali leak into the environment from discarded batteries.
To reduce their impact on the environment, there should be an overall reduction
in the number of batteries discarded. Therefore, buy longer-life auto batteries
and rechargeable button (AA, AAA, D…) batteries. This will help decrease
pollution and save you money in the long run.
Gasoline is also a household hazardous pollutant. To reduce the amount of
gasoline released into the environment through atmospheric deposition and
runoff, buy the most fuel-efficient vehicle that you can afford.
WHILE YOU HAVE IT… Share with your neighbors. Read and follow labels
for use and storage.
For your car, truck, or boat:
• Drive less, drive less, and drive less – use public transportation, carpool, walk, or bike.
• Maintain your auto – a properly tuned vehicle emits less pollutants and last longer!
• Fix any leaks.
• To collect drips, use pans, cloths, and cat litter.
• Collect used oil in jugs.
