Household Hazardous Waste Collection

Volunteers Needed!!

Household Hazardous Waste

Household Hazardous Wastes (HHW) are those wastes produced in our households that are hazardous in nature, but are not regulated as hazardous waste, under federal and state laws. Included are such items as old paints and paint related products, pesticides, pool chemicals, drain cleaners, and degreasers and other car care products. Such consumer waste products, if carelessly managed can, and frequently do, create environmental and public health concerns.

View a complete list of common HHW items.

Reduce HHW

Source reduction of potential HHW is the first step. Here are some quick tips for reducing household hazardous waste:

1. Buy the least toxic product available (avoid oil-base paints and products that contain chlorine).
2. Switch to non-hazardous alternatives, if available (baking soda is a good cleanser and freshner).
3. Buy only the amount you need. Purchasing products in "bulk" is not always a better value.
4. Share what you can't use with family, friends and neighbors.

When reduction or reuse isn't possible, securely pack and transport materials in their original containers to the regional household hazardous waste collection event. Sort and pack chemicals separately, being cautious to avoid spills. Never smoke while handling hazardous materials and never mix chemicals. To make your home safer, BVSWMA sponsors TWO collection events each year. The collection event is provided FREE to the residents of the Brazos Valley (7 county region) as a means to safely dispose of household hazardous items. Ammunition, explosives, radioactive waste, tires, compressed gas cylinders, and household garbage will not be accepted.

HHW Collection Event Schedule

The next collection event is scheduled for: April 27, 2013 from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Future Date: to be announced  Location: University Services Building Enter from Harvey Rd. East, first entrance on the left after Veteran's Park

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Volunteer Opportunities

This program is always looking for volunteers to assist at collection events. If you are interested in volunteering or have questions regarding Household Hazardous Waste or the collection events, please call Samantha Best, Deputy Director at (979) 764-3878.

BVSWMA Goals

Our goal is to increase public awareness regarding HHW and to dispose of the maximum amount of hazardous materials at these collection events. Since the program began in 1994, over 17,188 people have disposed of more than 763,066 pounds of hazardous waste and 112 tons of computers. In May 2003 the first E-waste collection was held and almost 15,000 pounds of computers, monitors and keyboards were collected. BVSWMA will continue to hold these HHW events in hopes that the Brazos Valley household residents will bring their hazardous waste to our FREE Household Hazardous Waste collection events.

Need to Dispose of Computers Before the Next HHW Events?

**NEW** - Texas Computer Equipment Recycling Program. For more information about this program, visit www.texasrecyclescomputers.org

List of Manufacturers - Free computer recycling for all personal computers:

HHW Program Awards

• Brazos Valley Council of Governments Outstanding Service - September 2006
• Recycling Alliance of Texas Outstanding Sustainability Program Award - 2006 
• Keep Brazos Beautiful Can Do Award - December 2006
• Keep Texas Beautiful Governor's Achievement Certificate - July 2007
• Keep America Beautiful National Distinguished Service Citation Award - November 2007
• Keep Brazos Beautiful Distinguished Partner in Beauty Award - March 2008
• Keep Texas Beautiful Regional Award for Household Hazardous Waste Program - April 2008
• Keep Texas Beautiful Regional Award for Household Hazardous Waste Program - June 2009
• Keep Texas Beautiful Regional Award for Household Hazardous Waste Program - June 2010