These 5 household items can result in a fine or even jail time if thrown in the trash
Maybe you should think twice before taking out the trash.
At least five items cannot be thrown away for environmental reasons, and throwing them in the trash can could result in fines or even jail time.
Municipal waste collectors won’t accept electronic devices because of their ecological dangers – the technology leaches toxic chemicals into the ground that can pollute our water sources.
California was the first state to pass laws against throwing e-waste like TVs, batteries and smartphones in the trash in 2003, and since then 27 states have followed suit.
Along with old electronics, improper disposal of motor oil is considered illegal disposal and is punishable by a fine of up to $50,000 and five years in prison.
At least five items cannot be thrown away for environmental reasons, and throwing them in the trash can could result in fines or even jail time
1. Batteries
Most electronic devices are powered by traditional cylindrical alkaline batteries that can be thrown in the trash.
But the coin-shaped units found in calculators and watches, as well as the lithium units used in smartphones, cannot be brought to the curb.
Throwing lithium batteries in the trash could leach toxic chemicals into the ground and contaminate groundwater.
Because the power sources can catch fire and even explode.
Replaceable rechargeable batteries can be dropped off at specialty battery recyclers, participating retailers that offer battery take-back services, or 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 several states where it is illegal to trash or recycle all rechargeable and disposable batteries.
Throwing lithium batteries in the trash could leach toxic chemicals into the ground and contaminate groundwater
Violators in the state are subject to a civil penalty of $50 for the first violation, $100 for a second violation committed within 12 months of the first, and $200 for third and subsequent violations. committed within one year of the first violation.
2. Televisions and computers
Your old TV or computer is packed with various materials such as plastics, circuits, circuit boards, glass and metals that cannot be thrown into a single trash can.
For this reason, the outdated or broken devices must be sent to a recycling plant.
But if it still works, try donating it to a thrift store.
Several US states impose a fine of at least $100 on violators.
3. Smartphones and tablets
Anyone who throws smartphones and tablets in the trash can face a fine of at least $100
These technologies add to ever-increasing landfills and contaminate groundwater and the surrounding environment by releasing the toxic substances used to build these cell phones.
The structures of smartphones and tablets are flammable, which can cause fires that release toxic fumes into the air.
Several US states impose a fine of at least $100 on violators.
4. Engine oil
Disposing of motor oil in the trash is considered illegal disposal and can result in criminal penalties and hefty fines.
Disposing of motor oil in the trash is considered illegal disposal and can result in criminal penalties and hefty fines
READ MORE: Scientists invent method to recycle lithium-ion batteries
Ascend Elements, based in Westborough, Massachusetts, has developed a process that shreds used batteries and converts them into cathode materials ready for conversion into future working batteries and installation in electric vehicles.
This is due to the chemicals contained in the oil, which are toxic to wildlife and plants and can leach into the soil and groundwater.
Instead of disposing of your used oil, take it to a service facility (quick lube facilities, gas stations, auto repair shops, dealers or marinas that offer oil change services) or a retail establishment (large box stores or auto parts stores that sell large quantities of it). new lubricating oil) for recycling.
Used motor oils, transmission fluids, hydraulic fluids and gear oils are all considered waste oil and can be recycled.
Under federal law, a person who knowingly handles, stores, or disposes of hazardous waste in violation of an essential condition of the permit may be sentenced to two years or more in prison and a $50,000 fine for the violation.
5. Microwaves
Due to their electrical components, microwave ovens are considered electronic waste in some places.
The outer casing of a microwave oven typically consists of a surrounding metal casing that is entirely contained in a single piece.
The interior panels and doors are made of stainless steel and coated with acrylic enamel. These metal walls reflect the radiation inwards towards the food.
But there are inside electromechanical components such as motors and switches.
There is also a magnetron tube used to regulate the intensity of radiation when cooking food.
And like other e-waste, violators could face fines of at least $100.