Chemical (household)
Some household chemicals are highly toxic. Always read the label and follow handling instructions.
Be aware that all chemicals used in your household will eventually find their way into the natural environment and, even in diluted amounts, will pollute the land, waterways and oceans.
"Household chemicals" mostly means cleaning products, but extends to include solvents, automotive liquids, dyes, paint, garden chemicals and cosmetics.
There are a number of non-toxic, biodegradeable, environmentally-friendly household chemicals available. Read the fine print before believing the advertising though and check the label for symbols identifying them as biodegradeable and recyclable.
You can also make cleaning products yourself using the basic ingredients of white vinegar and baking soda.
See also agrichemical | agrichemical container | plastic bottle | hazardous waste
Next time you are replacing household chemicals look for environmentally-friendly products which biodegrade easily.
Reuse household chemical containers by refilling with your own home-made products.
If you have surplus household chemicals/cleaners, see if a neighbour or family member would use them.
Household chemicals cannot be recycled.
Clean plastic containers which have recycle symbols can be taken to the Whanganui Resource Recovery Centre.
The Whanganui Resource Recovery Centre in conjunction with the Whanganui District Council holds four hazardous waste collections per year. Qualified Safety Officers able to identify hazardous waste will be in attendance. (Pre-booking is required.)
See hazardous waste