The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders is offering a simple way for everyone to pitch in and help improve environmental health.
Officials said residents can safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals and other special waste by bringing these items to Union County’s free Household Hazardous Waste recycling event on Saturday June 9, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine, at the Union County College campus in Cranford, at 1033 Springfield Avenue.
As a bonus, the company Covanta is partnering with the Freeholder Board to offer $5.00 Home Depot gift cards for residents turning in old mercury thermostats.
“Our Household Hazardous Waste events provide every Union County household with a convenient way to dispose of harmful chemicals and other items in a safe and responsible manner,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways for everyone to help create a more healthful environment in their homes and in our community.”
“Covanta is proud to partner with Union County for a ‘Mercury Bounty’ take back event,” said Covanta’s Director of Environmental Science and Community Affairs Kenneth Armellino. “Covanta will be offering $5 Home Depot gift cards to any resident who turns in a mercury-containing thermostat.”
According to authorities, household hazardous wastes that can be brought to the event include mercury thermostats, propane tanks, and automobile tires among many other items such as oil-based paint and varnish, antifreeze, aerosol cans, pool chemicals, corrosives, pesticides, herbicides, solvents, thinners, fire extinguishers, motor oil and oil filters, gasoline, batteries, thermostats, fluorescent bulbs (unbroken) and mercury switches.
Only materials in original or labeled containers will be accepted. No containers larger than five gallons will be accepted.
There is a limit of eight automobile tires, without rims, per household.
Please note that latex paint is not accepted. Residents wishing to dispose of latex paint are advised to use it up, donate it or share with a neighbor. If those options are not available, the paint can be dried in the can, and/or mixed with kitty litter or newspaper, then disposed with regular household garbage.
For a complete list of the materials that will be accepted on June 9 as well as all Union County recycling event dates and locations, please visit ucnj.org/recycle.
The household hazardous waste collection will be held rain or shine for Union County residents only, not for businesses. Proof of Union County residency is required.
For more information, please call the Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889.