How to Identify & Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste

How to Identify and Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste

October 6, 2016
Waste Disposal

There are a dizzying number of materials in the average home that are considered household hazardous waste. These materials can be dangerous to us or the environment when not stored or disposed of properly and include risks from fire, chemical reactions, explosions or poisoning.

Some of this waste may only be dangerous in large quantities but it’s still considered hazardous regardless of the amount. The Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) defines what is considered to be hazardous waste here.

It’s reassuring to know that the programs for recycling and safe disposal of these materials are more accessible and better than ever before. Toronto’s Community Environment Days, for example, succeeded in collecting roughly 340,000 kg of household hazardous waste in 2015 alone, and are definitely a step in the right direction. 

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37 Ways to Reuse Junk and Reduce Your Need For Waste Disposal

37 Ways to Reuse Junk and Reduce Your Need For Waste Disposal

September 29, 2016
Recycling, Waste Disposal

As Canadians, most of us like to believe we’re doing enough for the environment with our weekly curbside recycling and composting efforts. The surprising truth is that we’re still actually producing an excessive amount of garbage that results in an inflated need for waste disposal.

In 2009, Canadians produced more garbage per capita than any other country on earth. And in 2014, our homes alone produced almost 10 tonnes of garbage, more than we ever have before.

Clearly, we need to look at other strategies besides recycling and composting to help curb the need for waste disposal. The easiest way to reduce the amount of garbage we produce is through the reuse and re-purposing of old, used items. All you need is a little creativity and inspiration.

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