‘People rely on us’: Don’t fret, household hazardous waste collection to resume in July – Daily Herald

Household Hazardous Waste Collection to Resume in July

Program Suspension and Resumption

The Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) has canceled the household chemical waste collection event initially scheduled for Saturday at its Gurnee facility due to a lack of storage space. However, the program will resume in July, ensuring continued community access to safe hazardous waste disposal.

Storage Capacity and Funding Constraints

• SWALCO is authorized to store limited quantities of hazardous materials, including pesticides, motor oil, household cleaners, and gasoline.
• More than 3,000 gallons of household hazardous waste are currently stored at the Gurnee facility located at 1311 Estes St., reaching full capacity.
• Removal and recycling of stored materials depend on state funding, which will be replenished with the new fiscal year starting July 1.

Financial and Operational Updates

• The cost of managing hazardous waste has increased.
• SWALCO’s state funding will also increase to accommodate these costs.
• The current storage issue is a one-time situation expected to be resolved in the upcoming year.

Appointment-Based Collection System

• SWALCO transitioned to an appointment-only system for household hazardous waste drop-offs at the Gurnee facility and mobile events across the county.
• Appointments are already being accepted for July 12 and July 24.
• A mobile drop-off event is scheduled for July 19 at Lakes Community High School, 1600 Eagle Way, Lake Villa.

Program Importance and Enhancements

According to SWALCO representatives, the program has long-standing community participation and is a trusted service for safe hazardous waste disposal, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Starting July 1, SWALCO will also accept loose batteries, enhancing the program’s scope and supporting SDG 13: Climate Action by promoting proper disposal of potentially harmful materials.

Community Engagement and Resources

Residents are encouraged to visit swalco.org for updates on upcoming events and to schedule hazardous waste drop-offs once services resume.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Proper disposal of hazardous household waste reduces health risks associated with exposure to toxic substances.
2. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – Preventing hazardous waste from contaminating water sources supports clean water initiatives.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The program promotes safe and sustainable waste management within the community.
4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Encourages responsible handling and recycling of hazardous materials.
5. SDG 13: Climate Action – Proper disposal of batteries and chemicals helps mitigate environmental pollution and climate impact.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • The article discusses household hazardous waste collection and management, which directly relates to sustainable consumption and waste management practices.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Proper disposal of hazardous household chemicals reduces environmental pollution and health risks associated with exposure to toxic substances.
3. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Managing hazardous waste prevents contamination of water sources, contributing to clean water and sanitation.
4. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The article highlights community-based waste collection programs that enhance urban sustainability.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle.
   • Target 12.5: Substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.9: Substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
3. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
4. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and waste management.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Volume of Household Hazardous Waste Collected and Stored
   • The article mentions “more than 3,000 gallons of household hazardous waste” stored, indicating measurement of waste volume as an indicator.
2. Number of Collection Events and Participation Rates
   • Reference to scheduled collection events and appointment-based drop-offs implies tracking the frequency of events and user participation.
3. State Funding Allocated for Waste Removal
   • The article notes funding availability affecting waste removal, implying financial resources as an indicator of program capacity.
4. Acceptance of Specific Waste Types (e.g., Loose Batteries)
   • The introduction of new waste types accepted can be an indicator of program expansion and inclusiveness.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: dailyherald.com