You may want to think twice before taking out the trash.
At least five items should not be thrown away due to environmental hazards, and throwing them in the trash can lead to fines or even jail time.
Municipal waste collectors do not accept electronics because of their ecological dangers: the technology leaks toxic chemicals into the ground, which can contaminate our water sources.
California became the first state to pass laws against throwing electronic waste, such as televisions, batteries and smartphones, in the trash in 2003, and 27 states have since followed suit.
Along with old electronics, improperly disposing of motor oil is considered illegal dumping and carries a $50,000 fine and five years in prison.
At least five items should not be thrown away due to environmental hazards, and throwing them in the trash can lead to fines or even jail time
1. Batteries
Most electronics run on the standard cylindrical alkaline batteries that can be thrown in the trash.
But the coin-shaped units found in calculators and watches and the lithium units used in smartphones cannot be set aside.
Throwing lithium batteries in the trash can release toxic chemicals into the soil and contaminate groundwater.
This is because the power sources can catch fire and even explode.
Removable rechargeable batteries can be returned to specialized battery recyclers, participating retailers offering battery take-back services, or to local household hazardous waste collection programs.
The entire device must be taken to a certified electronics recycler for non-removable batteries.
New York is one of many states where it is illegal to throw away or recycle all rechargeable and single-use batteries.
Throwing lithium batteries in the trash can release toxic chemicals into the soil and contaminate groundwater
Violators in the state are subject to a civil penalty of $50 for the first offense, $100 for a second offense committed within 12 months of the first, and $200 for third and subsequent offenses committed within one year of the first.
2. Televisions and computers
Your old television or computer is full of different materials, such as plastics, circuits, circuit boards, glass and metals, that cannot be thrown into one bin.
Therefore, the outdated or broken devices should be taken to a recycling company.
But if it still works, try donating it to a thrift store.
Several US states will impose fines of at least $100 on violators.
3. Smartphones and tablets
If you throw smartphones and tablets in the trash, you risk a fine of at least $100
These technologies contribute to the ever-growing landfills and pollute groundwater and surrounding environments by releasing the toxins used to build these cell phones.
The structures of smartphones and tables are flammable, which can cause fires that release toxic fumes into the air.
Several US states will impose fines of at least $100 on violators.
4. Engine oil
Disposing of motor oil in the trash is considered illegal dumping and can result in criminal charges and heavy fines.
Disposing of motor oil in the trash is considered illegal dumping and can result in criminal charges and heavy fines
This is due to the chemicals in the oil that are toxic to wildlife and plants and can seep into soil and groundwater.
Instead of dumping your used oil, take it to a service facility (quick lube facilities, gas stations, auto repair shops, dealerships or marinas that offer oil change services) or a retail establishment (big box stores or auto parts stores that sell significant amounts of oil). new lubricating oil) for recycling.
Used engine oils, transmission fluids, hydraulic fluids and gear oils are all considered used oil and can be recycled.
Under federal law, a person who knowingly handles, stores or disposes of hazardous waste while knowing he is violating a condition of a material permit could face a prison sentence of two years or more with a $50,000 fine for violation.
5. Microwaves
Because of their electrical components, microwave ovens are considered electronic waste in some places.
The outer casing of a microwave oven is usually a metal shell, all in one piece.
The interior panels and doors are made of stainless steel and covered with acrylic enamel. These metal walls reflect the radiation inwards towards the food.
But being inside electromechanical components such as motors and switches.
There is also a microwave tube, which is used to control the level of radiation when cooking food.
And as with other electronic waste, violators can face fines of at least $100.