Consumer NZ has launched a nationwide disposal guide for household chemicals. The organisation explained that Toxic, corrosive, flammable and explosive products – known as hazardous substances – carry warnings not to throw them out with the general rubbish, but don’t tell you what to do with them instead. The guide will inform the public on local council policies such as collection points and drop-off fees.
Consumer NZ chief executive Sue Chetwin said some councils needed to do more. “Our survey of all 67 councils found two-thirds accepted unwanted hazardous chemicals year-round at the landfill, a waste transfer station or a recycling centre. Another three offered regular collection events. But 18 didn’t give residents any way to dispose of these chemicals.”
“Unless you know what you’re looking for, this information can be tough to find on many local government websites. We hope our guide will make it easier for people to dispose of these products safely,” she added.
Hazardous chemicals must carry an on-pack warning or symbol. These substances shouldn’t be put in the general rubbish collection as they can cause serious harm to human health or the environment.
The full report is available online at its website.
