The last Household Chemical CleanOut events held on the Coast attracted a record-breaking number of vehicles attending and items collected, with the next events set for Kariong on August 1-2 and Charmhaven on August 15-16.
Earlier this year 3,496 vehicles passed through the gates dropping off 132.9 tonnes of chemicals at the bi-annual event hosted by Central Coast Council in conjunction with the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE).
Council’s Waste Services and Business Development Unit Manager, Andrew Pearce, said the incredible result displayed the community’s dedication to the management of household waste and resource recovery.
“Materials collected at these events are safely disposed of by the EPA contractor, with items such as paint tins, lead acid batteries and motor oils being recycled or reused,” Pearce said.
“It is no surprise paint was the most common item dropped off – other popular items included oil and fuels, gas cylinders, lead acid batteries, automotive products and pesticides.
“These events help keep hazardous materials out of our landfills, as many of these highly volatile products can react with other chemicals presenting a danger not only to our Waste Management Facilities, but also staff and customers at these locations.
“With COVID-19 restrictions still in place, extra precautions will be taken to ensure the continued safety of residents and staff onsite.
“At past Chemical CleanOut events, residents have been asked to remain in their vehicles while Council staff unload their chemicals, and this will again be the case.”
Mayor Lisa Matthews praised residents for their commitment to responsibly disposing of hazardous chemicals.
“Disposing of household chemicals correctly helps remove the risk of (them) contaminating our waterways and soils,” Cr Matthews said.
“I am pleased that these events are always well attended by our community who are passionate about helping to reduce pollution, keeping hazardous materials out of our landfills, and proactively allowing for reusable materials and precious metals to be recovered.”
Only household quantities are accepted.
For a full list of chemicals that can be dropped off call 131 555 or visit cleanout.com.au.
The Kariong cleanout will be held at Event Park, Kariong (off Kangoo Road), from 9am-3.30pm on August 1 and 2.
The Charmhaven event will take place at Council’s Charmhaven Depot (corner Chelmsford and Depot Rds), from 9am-3.30pm on August 15 and 16.
Source:
Media release, Jul 8
Central Coast Council