Atlanta Watershed: Keep Pipes Free of FOG This Holiday Season

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The holiday season is here, and the Atlanta Department of Watershed Management reminds its customers to dispose of food waste properly.

The department provides services to the city of Sandy Springs.

Fats, oils and grease, or FOG, can create blockages in household plumbing, which often leads to spills in yards and homes. During this time of year, grease in pipes is a common cause of overflows in the sewer system.

“Properly disposing of fats, oils and grease can help residents avoid expensive plumber visits,” said DWM Commissioner Jo Ann Macrina. “Keeping FOG out of our sewers will help us maintain the integrity of our system and protect local waterways.”

Cooking oils and meat fats are the most common forms of FOG. However, other products such as mayonnaise, peanut butter, chocolate, ice cream and salad dressing are also considered FOG. When poured down drains, FOG solidifies in pipes and restricts the flow of wastewater.

Watershed Management recommends pouring cooled liquid FOG in a sealable, disposable container and placing it in the trash. Residents should also scrape solid FOG and food particles into the trash. Finally, clean dishes with a paper towel before hand-washing them or placing them in the dishwasher, and then discard the paper towel in the trash.

To reduce the harmful effects of FOG pollution year-round, incorporate these and other disposal tips into everyday cooking habits. Those tips can be viewed on the DWM’s video on the topic.

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Images via Atlanta DWM’s YouTube video on FOG