Household Hazardous Waste Collection Draws 1,100 Residents

JOHNS CREEK, GA -- Johns Creek residents turned out in record numbers to this month's Household Hazardous Waste collection event presented by the city and Keep Johns Creek Beautiful.

The annual event, which was held Nov. 4, allowed residents to safely dispose of materials that need to stay out of landfills, but are often challenging to dispose of properly.

More than 1,100 residents took advantage of the opportunity to clear out electronics, fluorescent light bulbs, paint, mercury, pesticides, household cleaners, pool chemicals, and other items. These common household products can catch fire, react, or explode under certain circumstances, or can be corrosive, toxic or contain hazardous ingredients.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency's website, “improper disposal of HHW can include pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or in some cases putting them out with the regular trash."

"The dangers of such disposal methods might not be immediately obvious, but improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health," the agency added.

Residents of Johns Creek praised the city’s support of the event.

“This is one of the smartest events the city of Johns Creek holds," said Marion Silverman. "There is no other place to take these types of materials. I greatly appreciate the service.

Another resident, William Lamm, added "this effort is essential for Johns Creek homeowners to be able to discard long held waste that is ordinarily difficult to dispose of."

This year’s event marks the ninth household hazardous waste collection event that Keep Johns Creek Beautiful has organized on behalf of the city.

“Our events in Johns Creek have diverted over a million pounds of toxins, corrosives, heavy metals, and paint
from local landfills or improper disposal,” said Kathy Reed, executive director of Keep Johns Creek Beautiful. “The city’s support of our events demonstrates their commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, and has significantly enhanced civic and environmental stewardship.”

For information on safe management of household hazardous waste, and tips on reducing HHW in the home, visit the EPA’s website. To learn more about Keep Johns Creek Beautiful’s programs, visit their website at
www.knfb.org.

Image via Shutterstock