Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Sneakers, Sandals, and Boots in the United States Shoes typically contain a mixture of rubber, foam, leather, textiles, plastics, adhesives, and sometimes metal. These materials make whole shoes unsuitable for most curbside recycling programs. Keep footwear in use through repair, resale, swapping, or donation whenever practical. For shoes that are no longer wearable, look for a specialty footwear recycler or take-back program that explicitly accepts their type and condition. Choose the Right Option Shoe condition Preferred option What to do Clean, dry, and wearable Donate, sell, swap, or give away Confirm acceptance and keep pairs together as instructed. Worn but repairable Repair Ask a cobbler about soles, heels, straps, zippers, and stitching. Clean but no longer wearable Specialty footwear recycling, if accepted Confirm the program accepts worn-out shoes, not just reusable donations. Sandals, boots, or specialist footwear Repair, donation, or a program that specifically accepts them Do not assume an athletic-shoe collection accepts other footwear. Moldy, pest-infested, or contaminated Local waste-service guidance Do not put these shoes in donation or ordinary footwear collection bins. Beyond repair and not accepted for recovery Household trash Follow local disposal requirements. Nonprofits That Accept Footwear Donations or Arrange Recycling Donation and recycling are different. Some organizations distribute or resell wearable shoes, while others also arrange recycling for footwear that cannot be reused. Do not send worn-out shoes to a reuse-only program. Nonprofit Footwear accepted How the program works Important limits Soles4Souls New and gently worn shoes in many styles and sizes, including sneakers, sandals, and boots Collects footwear through donation locations, retail partners, shoe drives, and shipping options. Supports relief, reuse, and entrepreneurship programs. Shoes should still be wearable. Check current donation, shipping, and preparation requirements. Goodwill Wearable shoes and other accessories, subject to local acceptance requirements Generally resells donated items to support employment and community services. Each local Goodwill sets its own rules. Do not assume damaged footwear is accepted for recycling. ReLace Athletic shoes, with handling based on condition Provides suitable shoes to community organizations and works with partners to recycle footwear that cannot be reused. Primarily serves the San Francisco area through local collection partners and shoe drives. Confirm current locations and condition requirements. It’s From the Sole New, unused shoes and sneakers Distributes footwear to people in need in the United States and internationally. Do not send used shoes without direct approval. Confirm donation arrangements first. These organizations provide donation opportunities in the United States, but some distribute footwear internationally. Availability, shipping costs, and collection arrangements vary. Other Footwear Recycling Options Not every shoe collection service is a nonprofit. GotSneakers is a social enterprise that offers athletic-footwear collection programs for individuals, businesses, and fundraising organizations. Check current qualifying-footwear and condition requirements before participating. Retailer and manufacturer take-back programs may accept selected footwear for reuse or recycling. Participation and restrictions vary by store and program. Local running shops may host donation or recycling collections through outside partners. Ask which organization receives the shoes and whether it accepts worn-out footwear. A take-back program does not necessarily recycle every collected shoe into new footwear. Ask whether shoes are reused, resold, processed into other materials, or otherwise handled. Prepare Shoes for Donation For organizations accepting used footwear: Remove loose dirt and personal items. Clean shoes according to their care instructions. Let them dry completely. Check that soles, straps, zippers, and closures are safe and functional. Keep pairs together using the organization’s preferred method. Confirm acceptance of boots, sandals, children’s shoes, cleats, and other specialist footwear. Do not donate moldy, pest-infested, significantly contaminated, or structurally unsafe shoes for someone else to wear. Recycling programs may have different condition requirements, so check before sending damaged footwear. Sandals and Boots Sandals and boots may be suitable for repair or donation even when athletic-shoe recycling programs exclude them. Consider: Repairing straps, buckles, heels, soles, zippers, or stitching. Donating wearable pairs to an organization that accepts the style. Selling or giving them away through local resale or exchange platforms. Asking a specialty collector about leather footwear, metal hardware, work boots, or insulated boots. For safety footwear, consult the manufacturer before repairs or continued use if damage could affect its protective function. Keep Shoes Out of Ordinary Recycling Do not place whole shoes, loose soles, foam, insoles, laces, or mixed footwear components in curbside recycling unless your local program explicitly accepts them. Do not cut shoes apart merely to separate their materials. Follow the receiving recycler’s preparation instructions, and avoid dismantling footwear with sharp hardware, contamination, or deteriorating foam. Last Resort: Household Trash If footwear cannot be repaired, reused, donated, or accepted by a verified recycling program, follow local household-trash instructions. Contain loose fragments as your waste provider directs. Do not leave unwanted shoes outside donation centers or beside full collection bins. Ask your local waste authority about footwear contaminated with fuel, pesticides, solvents, or other hazardous substances. Do not burn footwear at home. Safety and Legal Notice Notice: This article provides general educational information for U.S. households and is not legal advice. Donation, recycling, and disposal requirements vary by organization, municipality, shoe type, material, and condition. Confirm current instructions before dropping off or mailing footwear. Only offer shoes for reuse when they are safe and accepted by the receiving organization. Do not assume a donation is tax-deductible or assign a deduction based solely on this article. Keep appropriate records and consult current IRS guidance or a qualified tax professional when needed. Sources Soles4Souls: Shoe Drive https://soles4souls.org/shoe-drive/ Goodwill Industries International: Donate Goods https://www.goodwill.org/ways-to-give/donate-goods/ Goodwill Northern New England: Acceptable Donations https://goodwillnne.org/donate/acceptable-donations/ ReLace: Environmental Nonprofit https://relacesf.org/ It’s From the Sole https://itsfromthesole.org/ GotSneakers: Impact Report https://gotsneakers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2022_IMPACT_REPORT.pdf GotSneakers: Enterprise and Nonprofit Programs https://gotsneakers.com/enterprise-nonprofit/

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards How to Dispose of & Recycle Cameras, Flashes, and Microphones 1. Check Local E-Waste Recycling Programs Cameras, flashes, microphones, and other recording equipment contain electronic components and may contain rechargeable or single-use batteries. Some older electronics may also contain substances that require special handling. Many communities offer e-waste collection programs where cameras and other electronics can be properly recycled. Check with your local waste authority, household hazardous waste program, or certified electronics recycler for accepted items. Some retailers also offer electronics recycling. For example, Best Buy accepts many cameras, camcorders, lenses, and other camera-related electronics for recycling , although restrictions and limits vary by location. EPA recognizes R2 and e-Stewards as accredited certification standards for electronics recyclers. 2. Manufacturer and Retailer Take-Back Programs Some manufacturers provide recycling or take-back programs for their products. Canon offers a U.S. consumer product recycling program for eligible Canon products. Batteries are handled separately. Best Buy offers both electronics recycling and trade-in programs, including options for qualifying cameras and action cameras. Check the manufacturer's website for current recycling, trade-in, repair, or refurbishment options before disposing of the equipment. Do not assume that every brand or retailer accepts every type of camera, microphone, flash, or accessory. Check the current accepted-item list first. 3. Donate, Repair, or Resell Working Equipment If the equipment is still functional, reuse is generally preferable to disposal because it extends the product's useful life. Consider: Schools, photography programs, film programs, or community centers Nonprofits and community organizations that provide technology or creative resources Local thrift stores or second-hand shops Camera resale and trade-in services , such as KEH or participating retailers Online marketplaces such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace Before donating or selling, remove personal information from devices that store photos, videos, recordings, Wi-Fi credentials, or account information. 4. Handle Batteries Separately and Safely Batteries require special attention, particularly lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries . Do not put lithium-ion batteries or devices containing them in household trash or curbside recycling. They can be damaged during collection and processing and create a fire hazard. If a battery is easily removable , take it to a designated battery-recycling location or household hazardous waste collection site. If the battery is built into the device , do not dismantle the camera or microphone simply to remove it. Take the entire device to an appropriate electronics recycler or take-back program. For removable lithium batteries, EPA recommends covering the terminals with non-conductive tape or placing each battery in its own plastic bag to prevent accidental contact and fires. Never attempt to recycle or transport a swollen, leaking, punctured, or visibly damaged lithium battery through an ordinary battery drop-off without first checking the facility's instructions. Contact the manufacturer or local hazardous-waste authority for guidance. Cameras may also use lithium-metal, NiMH, or other battery types , so check the battery label before disposal. 5. Don't Forget the Accessories Cameras and recording equipment often come with additional items that require different disposal methods. Memory cards: Erase or securely format cards before donating or selling them. If they are no longer usable, check whether your local e-waste program accepts them. Cables and chargers: These are generally handled as electronic waste rather than ordinary household recycling unless your local program specifically accepts them. Lenses: Working lenses can often be donated, resold, or traded in. Some e-waste programs also accept them. Best Buy, for example, lists lenses among its accepted camera-related recycling items. Camera bags and cases: These may not be accepted by electronics recyclers. Consider donating or reusing them instead. Film and disposable cameras: Do not automatically treat these as ordinary e-waste. Unprocessed photographic film and chemicals may require specialized handling. Check with a photographic lab or local hazardous-waste program. Important Reminder Do not put cameras, microphones, flashes, lithium batteries, or other electronic equipment in the regular trash or curbside recycling unless your local waste program specifically says they are accepted. Recycling requirements vary by community and by product. Check with your local waste authority or the manufacturer before disposal. ⚠️ Safety Disclaimer: Connecting The Dots Project provides this information for general educational purposes. Disposal requirements vary by location, equipment type, and the materials involved. Do not dismantle electrical fixtures, battery-powered devices, or other electrical equipment unless you are qualified to do so safely. Follow manufacturer instructions, local regulations, and the requirements of the receiving recycling or hazardous-waste facility.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of TVs and Speakers Televisions (TVs) Recycling : Electronics Recycling Centers : Most televisions, especially older models (like CRT TVs), should not be disposed of in regular trash. They often contain harmful materials, such as lead, mercury, and other toxic substances. Instead, take them to certified electronics recycling centers where they can be broken down and recycled responsibly. Manufacturer Take-Back Programs : Many TV manufacturers offer take-back programs where you can return your old TV for proper recycling. Check the brand’s website or customer service for more information. Donation : Working TVs : If the TV is still in working condition, consider donating it to local charities, thrift stores, or non-profit organizations. Many schools, shelters, or community centers may accept working used TVs. Retailer Recycling : Some large electronics retailers like Best Buy offer free TV recycling programs. Check with local stores to see if they accept old electronics for recycling. Hazardous Waste : Special Disposal : Older TVs, especially CRT models, contain hazardous materials. Ensure that your local recycling program handles these items appropriately and safely, as improper disposal can harm the environment. Speakers Recycling : Electronics Recycling : Many local recycling centers accept speakers along with other electronic waste. Speakers often contain valuable metals (such as copper and aluminum) that can be recycled. Certified E-Waste Facilities : Look for certified e-waste recycling programs that handle the recycling of electronic components, including speakers, in an environmentally safe way. Donation : Donating Working Speakers : If the speakers are still functional, consider donating them to schools, libraries, or non-profits that may benefit from audio equipment. Online Platforms : You can also consider donating or selling speakers through online platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Freecycle to find someone who could make use of them. Retailer Take-Back Programs : Some electronics retailers offer trade-in or recycling programs for speakers, where you can return them for proper disposal or recycling. Disposal : If the speaker is no longer usable, check with local waste management centers to see if they accept them as part of your curbside electronics recycling program. If not, they should be taken to an e-waste recycling center. Important Notes : Avoid Landfills : Never dispose of your old TV or speakers in regular household trash as they contain materials harmful to the environment. Always look for responsible recycling options. Check Local Regulations : Disposal options for TVs and speakers may vary depending on your location. Some areas have specific guidelines for recycling e-waste. Data Destruction : If your speakers or TV have any memory or storage capabilities (e.g., smart TVs), ensure any personal data is erased before disposal or recycling. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your old TVs and speakers are disposed of in an environmentally friendly and safe manner.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling & Disposal of Electric and Industrial Pool and Floor Vacuums Electric, commercial, and industrial vacuums contain materials such as metals, plastics, motors, wiring, circuit boards, and, in some models, rechargeable batteries. Proper disposal helps recover usable materials and reduces the risk of fires, electrical hazards, and improper handling of batteries. 1. Recycling Options Local E-Waste and Appliance Recycling Programs: Some communities accept electric vacuums and other small appliances through e-waste or appliance-recycling programs. Always check whether the facility accepts your specific type and size of vacuum. Retail Recycling Programs: Some retailers offer electronics or appliance recycling, but accepted products vary. Check the retailer's current list before bringing in a vacuum. Manufacturer Take-Back Programs: Check with the manufacturer for recycling, repair, refurbishment, or take-back options. Commercial and industrial equipment may have different programs from household models. Scrap Metal Recyclers: Some scrap-metal facilities accept equipment containing substantial amounts of steel or aluminum. Call ahead to confirm that they accept complete electric vacuums. Battery Recycling: Battery-powered vacuums with removable rechargeable batteries may require separate battery recycling. Follow the battery manufacturer's or local recycling program's instructions. 2. Prepare the Vacuum Safely Unplug Before Handling: For corded models, disconnect the vacuum from the power source before cleaning, preparing, or transporting it. Do Not Dismantle Unless Instructed: Motors, capacitors, circuit boards, and wiring can present electrical or mechanical hazards. A recycler may also prefer to receive the equipment intact. Do Not Remove Built-In Batteries: If the battery is sealed or built into the vacuum, do not open the equipment simply to remove it. Ask the manufacturer or recycler how the complete unit should be handled. Removable Batteries: If the manufacturer specifically indicates that the battery can be safely removed, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Lithium-ion batteries should not be placed in household trash or curbside recycling. Empty the Vacuum: Remove dirt, debris, and ordinary contents before recycling when it can be done safely. For pool equipment, allow the unit to drain and dry completely. Smart Vacuums: If a robotic or connected vacuum stores Wi-Fi credentials, maps, schedules, account information, or other personal data, perform a factory reset and remove the device from your account before donating or recycling it. 3. Reuse Before Recycling If the vacuum still works safely, reuse is often preferable to disposal . Donate: Consider local charities, community organizations, schools, repair programs, or other groups that may have a use for working equipment. Sell or Give Away: Working vacuums can be offered through local resale or community platforms. Repair: A damaged hose, filter, brush, battery, or other replaceable component may be repairable without replacing the entire machine. Reuse Parts: Hoses, attachments, wheels, and other components may have value as replacement parts. Only salvage internal components if you know how to handle them safely. 4. Special Handling for Damaged Equipment and Batteries Do not place a damaged lithium-ion battery in the trash or curbside recycling. Contact your local household hazardous waste program, battery recycler, or the manufacturer for instructions if the vacuum has: A swollen, punctured, leaking, or visibly damaged battery Signs of overheating, smoke, or burning Significant electrical damage A leaking chemical or battery electrolyte Other damage that makes the equipment unsafe to transport or operate Do not puncture, crush, burn, or attempt to repair a damaged lithium-ion battery. For commercial or industrial vacuums that have been used to collect chemicals, asbestos, hazardous dust, contaminated materials, or other regulated substances , do not treat them as ordinary household equipment. Contact the appropriate hazardous-waste authority or a qualified waste contractor before disposal. 5. Important Safety Reminders Never put rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in regular trash or curbside recycling. Do not cut power cords, open battery compartments, or dismantle electrical equipment unless specifically instructed and you can do so safely. Do not assume every e-waste center accepts vacuums. Confirm accepted items before transporting the equipment. Industrial equipment may have different disposal requirements from household vacuums , particularly if it was used with hazardous or contaminated materials. Keep damaged batteries and equipment away from heat, flames, water, and anything that could crush or puncture them. When in doubt, contact your local waste authority, the manufacturer, or a qualified recycling facility before disposal. Requirements vary by product, battery type, equipment size, and local regulations. ⚠️ Safety Disclaimer: Connecting The Dots Project provides this information for general educational purposes. Disposal requirements and safety procedures vary by location and product. Do not perform electrical work, battery removal, or equipment disassembly unless you are qualified to do so safely. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and local regulations.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling and Disposing of Food Scraps Preventing food waste and sharing safe, edible surplus should come first. For unavoidable scraps, home composting, community collection, and other organics recycling programs can return nutrients to the soil or recover energy. 1. Reduce Waste and Share Edible Food Before treating food as waste, consider whether it can still be safely eaten. Plan meals: Check your refrigerator, freezer, and pantry before shopping. Store food properly: Refrigerate or freeze suitable foods before they spoil. Use edible trimmings: Suitable vegetable trimmings can be used in stock, and other edible portions can be incorporated into meals. Do not use spoiled or moldy ingredients. Share surplus: Food banks, shelters, and community food-sharing programs may accept safe, edible food. Confirm their acceptance and food-safety requirements before donating. Food rescue is different from food-scrap recycling. Only food suitable for human consumption should be offered for people to eat. 2. Compost at Home Composting uses microorganisms and oxygen to break down organic materials into a soil amendment. Finished compost improves soil rather than replacing soil entirely. Backyard Composting A backyard bin or pile can handle: Fruit and vegetable scraps. Coffee grounds and paper coffee filters. Crushed eggshells. Dry leaves and suitable yard trimmings. Balance moist food scraps with dry materials such as leaves, and maintain moisture and airflow. Bury food scraps within the pile to help discourage pests. Avoid meat, fish, bones, dairy products, fats, oils, grease, and pet waste in a typical backyard compost pile. Worm Composting Vermicomposting uses composting worms, such as red wigglers, to process suitable food scraps in a managed bin. It can work in small spaces. Feed worms small amounts of appropriate fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and crushed eggshells. Avoid meat, dairy, greasy foods, and pet waste, and follow guidance for maintaining the bin’s moisture, bedding, and feeding rate. Bokashi Fermentation Bokashi ferments food scraps in an airtight container using an inoculated material, often called bokashi bran. Some systems can process meat, dairy, and cooked foods. Bokashi does not produce finished compost directly. The fermented material needs further processing, such as an appropriate soil-burial or composting step, before it becomes a finished soil amendment. Follow the system’s instructions and local requirements. 3. Use Community or Municipal Food-Scrap Collection Some communities offer curbside organics collection, neighborhood drop-off sites, or subscription collection services. Collected scraps may go to a commercial composting facility or an anaerobic digester. Check the accepted-materials list before participating. Add food scraps to a yard-waste bin only when the program explicitly permits it. Do not assume meat, bones, dairy, compostable packaging, or compostable bags are accepted. Remove conventional plastic packaging, stickers, and other contaminants as directed. Keep collected scraps in a closed container. Refrigerating or freezing them before collection can help manage odors. 4. Understand Anaerobic Digestion Anaerobic digestion breaks down organic materials without oxygen in a controlled system. It produces: Biogas: A methane-containing gas that can be used for energy. Digestate: Remaining material that may be processed and used as fertilizer or a soil amendment when it meets applicable requirements. This is generally a facility-based option accessed through an approved collection program. Do not assume that putting food scraps down a kitchen drain sends them to an appropriate food-recycling system. 5. Use Caution with Animal Feeding Food scraps are not automatically safe or legal to feed to animals. Suitability depends on the animal, ingredients, food condition, and applicable regulations. Contact a farm or animal sanctuary before offering scraps. Do not assume foods suitable for people are suitable for pets or livestock. Follow veterinary guidance and applicable animal-feed rules. Be especially cautious with food waste intended for pigs. Federal and state rules can restrict feeding material containing meat or material that has contacted meat. 6. Use Trash When No Appropriate Recovery Option Exists If no suitable composting or collection option is available, follow local instructions for household trash disposal. Food decomposing in landfills generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Preventing wasted food and using appropriate recovery options can reduce reliance on landfill disposal. Safety and Legal Notice Notice: This article provides general educational information for U.S. households. It is not legal, veterinary, or food-safety advice. Composting rules, collection requirements, food-donation policies, and animal-feed laws vary by location. Follow current guidance from your local waste agency, receiving organization, and relevant regulatory authorities. Do not donate spoiled food, add pet waste to compost intended for growing food, or feed scraps to animals without confirming their safety and legality. Keep food-scrap containers secure to discourage pests. Sources U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Wasted Food Scale https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/wasted-food-scale U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Composting at Home https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Approaches to Composting https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/approaches-composting Arizona Department of Environmental Quality: Bokashi Compost Guide http://azdeq.gov/bokashi-compost-guide U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service: Human Food Waste and Swine https://www.aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/shpa-human-food-waste-and-swine.pdf U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Regional Resources to Reduce and Divert Wasted Food Across the United States https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/regional-resources-reduce-and-divert-wasted-food-across-united-states

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Plastic Clamshell Produce Containers: Recycling and Disposal Plastic clamshell containers used for berries, tomatoes, and other produce are recyclable in some communities, but not all. Check whether your local program specifically accepts plastic clamshells before placing them in your recycling bin. When They Can Be Recycled Check local acceptance: Some programs accept clear PET #1 clamshell containers. Acceptance of #1 plastic bottles does not automatically mean clamshells are accepted. Look beyond the number: The resin identification code identifies the plastic type. It does not guarantee that the container is recyclable in your community. Empty and clean containers: Remove leftover produce and rinse or scrape away food residue. Drain excess water before recycling. Follow preparation instructions: Check local guidance about attached lids, labels, stickers, and absorbent pads. Do not assume every label must be removed. When They Are Not Accepted Recycling programs differ in the container shapes and materials they can sort, process, and sell to manufacturers. A clamshell may be excluded even when it is made from the same plastic type as an accepted bottle. Do not assume colored or black containers are accepted. Check the program’s specific guidelines. Keep compostable plastics out of conventional plastic recycling. Follow the package instructions and confirm acceptance with a suitable composting program. Do not place clamshells in grocery-store plastic bag collection bins. These programs generally collect eligible flexible polyethylene bags and films, not rigid produce containers. Disposal and Reuse Options Check for a verified collection option: Your municipal recycling website or waste provider may identify a drop-off program. Confirm that it specifically accepts clamshell containers. Reuse when practical: Clean containers can hold craft supplies or other small, nonfood items. Use the trash when necessary: If your local program does not accept the container and no verified recycling option is available, place it in the trash rather than contaminating the recycling stream. Ways to Reduce Packaging Choose loose produce when available. Bring reusable produce bags. Select packaging that your local recycling program accepts. Avoid unnecessary packaging when practical. Safety and Legal Notice Notice: This article provides general educational information for U.S. households and is not legal advice. Recycling requirements and accepted materials vary by community and may change. Follow current instructions from your municipality or waste provider rather than relying solely on packaging symbols. Handle cracked containers carefully, and do not burn plastic packaging at home. Sources U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: How Do I Recycle Common Recyclables https://www.epa.gov/recycle/how-do-i-recycle-common-recyclables U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Frequent Questions on Recycling https://www.epa.gov/recycle/frequent-questions-recycling How2Recycle: Frequently Asked Questions https://how2recycle.info/frequently-asked-questions/ How2Recycle: Label Explorer https://how2recycle.info/about-the-how2recycle-label/label-explorer/ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: What You Can Do to Reduce Plastic Waste https://www.epa.gov/plastics/what-you-can-do-reduce-plastic-waste

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal of Biohazard Materials Biohazardous materials are biological substances or contaminated items that can pose a risk to human health or the environment. Safe disposal depends on the type of material, where it was generated, and applicable regulations. In the United States, medical waste is primarily regulated by state environmental and health agencies. Examples of Biohazardous Materials Materials that may require special handling include: Medical waste: Blood-contaminated bandages, gloves, and other disposable healthcare supplies. Not every used medical item qualifies as regulated medical waste. Blood and potentially infectious materials: Human blood, certain bodily fluids, and tissues that may contain infectious agents. Microbiological waste: Laboratory cultures, specimens, and materials containing potentially infectious microorganisms. Sharps waste: Used needles, lancets, scalpels, and contaminated broken glass that can puncture or cut skin. Animal-related waste: Contaminated bedding, tissues, and carcasses associated with infectious agents or certain research activities. Biological toxins: Harmful substances produced by microorganisms, plants, or animals. These materials require toxin-specific assessment and disposal procedures. Handling and Disposal Precautions Separate and contain waste properly Keep sharps separate from other waste. In workplaces covered by OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, contaminated sharps must go into containers that are closable, puncture-resistant, leakproof on the sides and bottom, and appropriately labeled or color-coded. Other regulated waste requires closable, leak-preventing containment and appropriate labeling or color coding. For home-generated sharps, the FDA recommends immediately placing used needles and similar items in an FDA-cleared sharps container. Do not place loose sharps in household trash or recycling, and never flush them down a toilet. Follow community requirements for disposing of the filled container. Use an approved treatment and disposal service Treatment methods may include steam sterilization, such as autoclaving, or incineration at an appropriately regulated facility. The correct method depends on the waste and applicable state requirements. Treatment does not automatically make every material suitable for ordinary trash disposal. Biological toxins require particular care because effective inactivation methods vary by toxin. Do not assume that a routine disinfection or autoclave procedure is appropriate for every biological material. Confirm local requirements Household sharps and waste generated by businesses, healthcare facilities, or laboratories may be subject to different requirements. Contact the relevant state or local agency before selecting a disposal route. Do not assume that a household hazardous waste program accepts medical waste or business-generated materials. Who to Contact State environmental or health agency: Start here for medical waste classifications, disposal requirements, and information about authorized treatment facilities. Local health department or waste management agency: Ask about household sharps programs, collection locations, and local restrictions. Confirm which materials the program accepts. Medical waste disposal company: Contact a provider authorized to handle your specific waste. Confirm packaging, collection, transportation, and documentation requirements before arranging service. Hospitals, pharmacies, and healthcare providers: Some participate in sharps collection programs or can identify local options. Call ahead because participation and acceptance policies vary. Police or fire departments: Some serve as designated sharps collection sites. Do not bring waste to a station without first confirming that it accepts the material. OSHA: Consult OSHA for workplace requirements related to bloodborne pathogens, employee exposure, and contaminated sharps. OSHA does not regulate the final disposal of medical waste. EPA: Consult EPA for medical waste guidance and information about federal environmental requirements. EPA is not the primary regulator of routine medical waste disposal, although federal requirements can apply to treatment emissions and other aspects of waste management. Safety and Legal Notice Notice: This information is intended for general educational purposes in the United States. It is not medical, legal, or professional waste-management advice and does not replace required training, an employer’s exposure-control plan, or instructions from the responsible regulatory agency. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, waste type, and source. Verify current rules with your state or local environmental or health agency before handling, transporting, treating, or disposing of biohazardous materials. Do not attempt to treat unfamiliar infectious materials or biological toxins yourself. Workplace handling and treatment should follow applicable safety requirements and material-specific procedures. Never place loose sharps in trash or recycling. Sources and Full Links U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Medical Waste https://www.epa.gov/rcra/medical-waste Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1030 https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.1030/ Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Bloodborne Pathogens and Needlestick Prevention Standards https://www.osha.gov/bloodborne-pathogens/standards Occupational Safety and Health Administration: OSHA Does Not Regulate the Final Disposal of Medical Waste https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2007-10-26-0 U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Best Way to Get Rid of Used Needles and Other Sharps https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safely-using-sharps-needles-and-syringes-home-work-and-travel/best-way-get-rid-used-needles-and-other-sharps U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Sharps Disposal Containers https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safely-using-sharps-needles-and-syringes-home-work-and-travel/sharps-disposal-containers CDC/NIH biosafety guidance: Guidelines for Work with Toxins of Biological Origin, hosted by Duke University https://www.safety.duke.edu/sites/default/files/Work_Toxins_of_BioOrigin.pdf

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Pots and Pans Pots, pans, skillets, bakeware, and other cookware should not automatically go in curbside recycling. Most are made from heavy, mixed, coated, or irregular materials that can damage sorting equipment. The best option is to reuse, repair, donate, or take eligible metal cookware to a scrap-metal recycler. Do not place cookware in curbside recycling unless your local program specifically accepts it. Many curbside programs accept only food and beverage cans, not pots, pans, or scrap metal. Choose the right option Cookware condition Best option What to do Clean, safe, and usable Donate, sell, give away, or keep using Confirm the receiving organization accepts cookware Dull, warped, or loose-handled but repairable Repair or repurpose Tighten handles, replace screws, or have eligible items repaired Stainless steel, aluminum, carbon steel, or cast iron beyond repair Scrap-metal recycling Contact a scrap-metal recycler or transfer station first Nonstick pan with an intact coating Continue using as directed, repurpose, or dispose according to local rules Verify whether a scrap-metal recycler accepts coated pans Nonstick pan with flaking or severely damaged coating Do not donate for food use Ask about recycling; otherwise wrap and place in trash if local rules allow Ceramic, glass, enamel, or stoneware cookware Donate if safe and usable; otherwise dispose or use a specialty recycler Do not put in curbside glass recycling Unknown imported cookware or cookware subject to an FDA warning Stop using it for food and do not donate Follow the FDA alert or local waste instructions Reuse, repair, and donation Donate only cookware that is clean, safe, and usable. Possible recipients include thrift stores, shelters, community kitchens, food pantries, mutual-aid groups, cooking programs, and neighborhood giveaway groups. Before donating: Clean off food residue, grease, and burnt material. Make sure handles are secure. Check for sharp edges, loose screws, cracks, broken glass, or warped bottoms. Confirm that lids, handles, and knobs are intact. Check for manufacturer recalls or FDA safety alerts. Do not donate cookware with cracked glass, sharp broken edges, severely warped bases, loose handles, heavily scratched or peeling nonstick coatings, or an unknown food-safety history. Metal cookware recycling Stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron, copper, and carbon-steel cookware may be accepted by scrap-metal recyclers. Some municipal drop-off sites or transfer stations also accept metal cookware, but requirements vary. Call before going and ask: Do you accept cookware from households? Do you accept nonstick-coated pans? Must plastic, wood, silicone, glass, or rubber handles be removed? Do you accept cast iron, aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and mixed-metal cookware? Are there fees, weight limits, or preparation requirements? Some recyclers accept nonstick cookware as scrap metal, while others reject it because the coating complicates processing. For example, Recycle Ann Arbor accepts metal pots and pans as scrap metal but excludes nonstick cookware because of its PTFE coating. Do not place pots, pans, knives, baking sheets, or other heavy metal cookware in curbside recycling unless your program explicitly allows it. Large or irregular scrap-metal items can jam machinery and create worker-safety hazards. Nonstick cookware Nonstick cookware is commonly coated with polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE. PTFE is sometimes associated with the brand name Teflon. PFOA is not the same thing as PTFE. PFOA was historically used as a manufacturing aid for some fluoropolymer products, while PTFE is the polymer coating on many nonstick pans. It is not accurate to say that all nonstick pans contain PFOA or that PFOA is the reason they cannot be recycled. FDA states that PFAS used in nonstick cookware coatings are polymerized and tightly bound to the cookware surface, with negligible migration to food under intended conditions of use. For disposal: Follow the manufacturer’s care and replacement instructions. Do not donate nonstick cookware with peeling, flaking, blistered, deeply scratched, or otherwise damaged cooking surfaces. Ask a scrap-metal recycler whether it accepts nonstick pans. If no recycler accepts the pan, place it in household trash only if local rules allow. Do not burn, grind, sand, or intentionally remove the coating. Lead and imported cookware Some imported cookware may contain materials that can leach lead into food. In 2025, FDA warned consumers not to use, sell, donate, refurbish, or cook with certain imported aluminum, brass, and aluminum-alloy cookware that may leach lead. FDA advises consumers to throw away items included in its warning rather than donating or repairing them. If you have cookware that is: Identified in an FDA warning or recall Made from unknown imported aluminum, brass, or aluminum alloys Damaged, corroded, chipped, or of uncertain composition Marketed as decorative rather than food-safe Unlabeled or of unknown origin Stop using it for cooking or food storage. Check FDA recall and import-alert information, contact the manufacturer, or ask your local household hazardous-waste program or waste authority for disposal guidance. Ceramic, glass, enamel, and stoneware Ceramic, glass, enamel, and stoneware cookware should not go in curbside glass recycling. Most curbside programs accept bottles and jars only. Donate only unchipped, food-safe, usable cookware. Do not donate cookware with cracks, chips on food-contact surfaces, or unknown safety status. Wrap broken pieces in thick cardboard or place them in a rigid container. Tape and label the container “Broken Glass” or “Sharp Ceramic.” Place it in household trash if local rules allow. Upcycling ideas Cookware that is no longer food-safe may still be useful for nonfood purposes: Use a sturdy pot as a planter, bird-feeder base, or outdoor storage container. Use a pan as a catchall tray in a garage or workshop. Use a cast-iron pan as a decorative object or outdoor fire-pit accessory only when it is safe and appropriate. Use lids as craft material or wall décor. Use intact cookware for camping only if it remains safe for food use. Do not use cookware that may contain lead or other harmful materials for food, gardening edible plants, or children’s activities.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Recycling and Disposal Guide: Plush Toys Plush toys, stuffed animals, dolls with fabric bodies, and soft toys are rarely accepted in curbside recycling. They are usually made from mixed materials, including polyester fabric, plastic stuffing, foam, synthetic fur, thread, buttons, electronics, batteries, and metal components. The best option is to donate clean, safe plush toys, repair or repurpose them, or use a specialty toy-recycling program. Place severely damaged, moldy, contaminated, or unsafe plush toys in the trash if no specialty program accepts them. Choose the right option Plush toy condition Best option What to do Clean, dry, safe, and gently used Donate, give away, or sell Confirm the receiving organization accepts used plush toys Minor damage, such as a loose seam Repair or upcycle Sew the seam, reinforce attachments, or repurpose the fabric Too worn for donation but clean and dry Specialty toy recycling or craft reuse Use a TerraCycle option if eligible, or save fabric and stuffing for projects Contains electronics or batteries Remove batteries if safely removable; use e-waste or toy recycling Do not put batteries in household trash or curbside recycling Moldy, wet, heavily stained, pest-infested, contaminated, or unsafe Trash Do not donate, recycle, or use as pet toys Donate clean, safe toys Possible donation options include thrift stores, shelters, children’s organizations, schools, day-care programs, religious organizations, and mutual-aid groups. Many hospitals, child-care programs, and shelters accept only new stuffed animals because of hygiene and infection-control requirements, so always call first. Stuffed Animals for Emergencies , or SAFE, is a volunteer nonprofit that accepts new and gently used stuffed animals, blankets, books, children’s clothing, and baby items. SAFE cleans donated items and distributes them through local partners to children experiencing traumatic or emotional situations. Donated plush toys are given directly to children and are not sold. Before donating: Wash or clean the plush toy according to its care label. Allow it to dry completely. Check seams, eyes, noses, buttons, ribbons, batteries, zippers, and other attachments. Remove personal information, names, or identifying labels when practical. Do not donate toys with loose parts, exposed stuffing, sharp pieces, heavy staining, odors, mold, pests, broken electronics, or battery compartments that do not close securely. SAFE chapters and partner organizations may have different rules. Some ask donors to place clean items in clear bags, while others require mailed donations or advance contact. Specialty recycling TerraCycle offers several toy-recycling options, but each has different limits. Hasbro Toy Recycling Program The free U.S. Hasbro Toy Recycling Program accepts eligible Hasbro toys and games, including plush toys, electronic toys, dolls, action figures, board games, plastic toys, metal toys, and wood toys. Batteries must be removed before shipping. The program is intended for Hasbro items, may have enrollment limits, and requires a filled box weighing at least 7 pounds before shipment. TerraCycle Stuffed Animals Zero Waste Box TerraCycle also sells a paid Stuffed Animals Zero Waste Box for plush toys and stuffed animals. It does not accept action figures, general toys, batteries, or packaging. Confirm current size options, fees, and accepted items before purchasing. Do not mail wet, moldy, contaminated, leaking, hazardous, sharp, infectious, or battery-containing items. Follow the program’s exact preparation instructions. Electronic plush toys Talking, light-up, musical, vibrating, or battery-operated plush toys require special handling. Check whether the toy has removable batteries. Remove batteries only if the battery compartment is intact and removal is safe. Tape battery terminals or bag batteries separately if required by the battery collection program. Take batteries to a designated battery recycler. Take the toy to a toy-recycling, e-waste, or manufacturer program that confirms it accepts electronic plush items. Battery-operated toys are subject to safety requirements related to battery access, labeling, overheating, and electrical safety. Do not put electronic plush toys, lithium-ion batteries, button batteries, battery packs, or damaged battery-powered toys in household trash or curbside recycling. Upcycle or repurpose Clean, non-electronic plush toys may be repurposed into: Decorative pillows or cushions Fabric patches, appliqués, or costume materials Stuffing for suitable craft projects Keychains or ornaments made from safe, clean parts Classroom or theater props Pet toys only if the toy has no buttons, plastic eyes, batteries, hard parts, toxic materials, loose stuffing, or choking hazards Do not give damaged plush toys to pets. Stuffing, squeakers, buttons, plastic eyes, wires, foam, and small parts can create choking, obstruction, or injury hazards. Trash disposal Place a plush toy in household trash if it is beyond repair or reuse and no specialty recycler accepts it. Bag the toy first if it is shedding fibers or stuffing. For electronic plush toys, remove recyclable batteries only when safe and use the correct battery-recycling option. If a battery cannot be removed safely, take the complete toy to an e-waste or household hazardous-waste program that accepts battery-containing devices. Safety and Legal Notice This guide is for educational purposes only. Donation, recycling, and disposal requirements vary by organization, toy type, materials, condition, and location. Confirm current acceptance rules directly with the receiving organization, TerraCycle, manufacturer, recycler, or local waste provider before delivering or mailing any item. Do not donate toys that are wet, moldy, heavily soiled, pest-infested, recalled, electrically damaged, or unsafe. Keep toys with loose buttons, plastic eyes, strings, wires, stuffing, or small detachable components away from young children and pets because they can create choking or injury hazards. Remove batteries only when it is safe to do so. Do not put loose batteries, damaged batteries, or electronic plush toys in curbside recycling or household trash. Do not dismantle, puncture, crush, burn, or modify battery-powered toys.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Glass, Crystal, Ceramic, Porcelain, and Clay Mugs Not everything made of glass belongs in a recycling bin. Programs that collect glass commonly focus on food and beverage bottles and jars. Drinking glasses, crystal, mirrors, windows, glass cookware, and ceramic dishware generally do not belong in the same collection. Some communities do not collect glass curbside at all. The most important rule is to check your local recycling program before putting an unfamiliar item in the bin. The distinction is not simply whether something looks like glass. Differences in composition, heat resistance, coatings, and processing requirements can make household glassware and ceramics unsuitable for bottle-and-jar recycling. Mixing incompatible materials into the collection can contaminate recycled glass or weaken the resulting products. What Goes Where The following table provides general guidance, not a universal acceptance list. Your collection provider’s instructions take priority. Material or item Curbside recycling? Recommended approach Food jars and beverage bottles Often accepted where glass collection is available Empty and rinse. Follow local instructions for lids, caps, and collection. Drinking glasses and glass mugs Generally not accepted Donate or reuse serviceable items. Securely contain broken pieces for disposal. Crystal, including lead crystal Generally not accepted Consider resale, donation, or decorative reuse. Follow local disposal rules for unwanted or broken pieces. Ceramic, porcelain, stoneware, earthenware, and fired-clay mugs Generally not accepted Donate or repurpose usable items. Ask about specialty recycling before disposing of broken pieces. Oven-safe glass and Pyrex-style cookware Generally not accepted Reuse or donate suitable, undamaged pieces. Follow local disposal instructions for damaged cookware. Mirrors and window glass Generally not accepted Seek reuse or a specialty recycler. Ask about bulky-waste requirements for large pieces. Tempered glass, including some tabletops and shower panels Generally not accepted Contact a specialty recycler or your waste provider. Glass candle containers Acceptance varies Check specifically for candle jars. Do not assume that acceptance of food jars includes candle containers. Broken glass Do not put it in curbside recycling without explicit instructions Follow your provider’s requirements for containment and disposal. These distinctions are consistent with EPA guidance and regional waste-authority lists of materials excluded from ordinary container-glass recycling. Candle-container acceptance varies: Austin Public Library’s recycling guide, for example, identifies empty candle jars as recyclable through local services. Food and Beverage Bottles and Jars Glass food and beverage containers can be recycled repeatedly, but collection options vary. Your community may offer curbside collection, a separate glass bin, or a drop-off program. Confirm the accepted container types before recycling. Before setting out accepted containers: Empty all food and liquid. Rinse away remaining residue. Follow local instructions for metal lids, plastic caps, and other attachments. Keep recyclables loose rather than placing them inside plastic bags, unless your program directs otherwise. Do not deliberately break containers to save space. EPA advises keeping broken glass out of recycling bins because shards can injure workers and damage equipment. Do not assume that a drinking glass, vase, or baking dish is acceptable just because it is transparent or resembles a bottle. Collection rules depend on the product category and processing system, not appearance alone. Crystal and Lead Crystal Crystal and leaded crystal generally do not belong in bottle-and-jar recycling. Regional recycling guidance specifically excludes leaded crystal and art glass from that collection. For intact pieces, consider: Offering them to a collector, resale shop, or donation organization that accepts crystal. Selling identifiable or valuable pieces. Keeping them for decorative use. Check with recipients before donating. Do not describe an unidentified piece as lead-free or food-safe simply because it is intact. Lead can migrate from lead crystal into liquids, so the absence of chips or cracks does not establish its suitability for food or beverage use. If a piece is broken or unwanted, follow your waste provider’s disposal instructions and keep sharp fragments securely contained. Do not place it in ordinary glass recycling. Ceramic, Porcelain, and Clay Mugs Ceramic mugs, porcelain dishes, stoneware, earthenware, and fired-clay pottery generally do not belong in curbside bottle-and-jar recycling. These materials are listed as contaminants or excluded materials by recycling authorities. If the item is intact and usable Consider donation, repair, or non-food reuse before disposal. Possible uses include a pencil holder, small storage container, decorative planter, or craft-supply holder. Contact a thrift store, reuse organization, or community group before delivering items, since donation policies vary. Regional waste guidance recommends considering reuse or repair before disposal. Keep damaged pieces out of donations intended for ordinary drinking or eating use. A non-food reuse may be more appropriate than returning a chipped or cracked mug to kitchen service. If the item is broken Keep broken pottery and ceramic fragments out of the recycling cart. Where household-trash disposal is permitted, contain the sharp pieces securely and follow your collection provider’s packaging requirements. Do not assume that a facility accepting construction debris or tile also accepts household mugs and dishes. Ask about the exact material, its condition, and any quantity restrictions before taking it to a specialty facility. Drinking Glasses, Oven-Safe Glass, Mirrors, and Windows Drinking glasses, heat-resistant cookware, mirrors, window panes, and safety glass are commonly excluded from bottle-and-jar recycling. Some flat glass can be recycled separately, but that does not make it suitable for the curbside container-glass bin. For intact items, consider reuse or donation where appropriate. For windows, mirrors, tabletops, and other large pieces, contact your waste provider or a specialty recycler before transport or disposal. The principal recycling concern is incompatibility with the container-glass stream. It is too broad to say that every excluded glass product damages processing equipment. EPA specifically identifies broken shards as a worker-safety and equipment concern, while regional guidance identifies incompatible glass and ceramics as contamination and product-quality concerns. Candle Jars Candle jars need a separate check rather than an automatic “yes” or “no.” Some local services accept empty candle containers, while other programs limit glass collection to food and beverage bottles and jars. Austin’s public-library recycling guide provides an example of a local service listing empty candle jars as recyclable. Before recycling one: Confirm that your program accepts candle containers specifically. Follow its instructions for remaining wax, wick components, lids, and decorations. If the program excludes the container, consider non-food reuse or follow local disposal instructions. A container’s original use matters when checking acceptance. “It is a glass jar” is not enough information to determine where it belongs. Light Bulbs Are a Separate Category Do not place light bulbs in bottle-and-jar recycling. They are specifically excluded from ordinary glass-container collection. Check the disposal instructions for the particular bulb type instead of applying the same rules used for bottles, drinking glasses, or dishes. Handling Broken Items Safely Broken glass can injure collection workers, which is one reason EPA advises against putting it in recycling bins. Ordinary broken dishware and glassware should be handled according to your local waste provider’s instructions. When preparing sharp fragments for disposal: Keep children and pets away from the area. Avoid picking up shards with bare hands. Use appropriate protective gloves and closed-toe footwear. Use tools such as a broom and dustpan to gather fragments. Place pieces in a sturdy, puncture-resistant container that prevents sharp edges from protruding. Secure the container and label it if your provider requests labeling. Do not leave loose shards in a thin trash bag or recycling cart. For large mirrors, window panes, or heavy glass panels, ask about collection and packaging requirements before attempting to move or discard them. Safety and Local Requirements This guide provides general household guidance, not a guarantee that a material is accepted in your community. Confirm current requirements with your municipal waste department, collection company, donation organization, or receiving facility. Keep three decisions separate: whether an item can be reused, whether a particular facility can recycle it, and whether your curbside program accepts it. An item may have a specialty recycling option while still being prohibited in your household recycling bin. Sources: “How Do I Recycle Common Recyclables," U.S. Environmental Protection Agency https://www.epa.gov/recycle/how-do-i-recycle-common-recyclablesepa “Glass Bottles & Jars (Food & Beverage) - Non-CRV," StopWaste https://resource.stopwaste.org/items/glass-bottles-jars-food-beverage-non-crvresource.stopwaste “Let’s Be Clear! Not All Glass Belongs in the Recycling Bin”, Ulster County Resource Recovery Agency https://ucrra.org/lets-be-clear-not-all-glass-belongs-in-the-recycling-bin/ucrra “Ceramics & Pottery - Broken” StopWaste https://resource.stopwaste.org/items/ceramics-pottery-brokenresource.stopwaste “Illinois EPA Interactive Curbside Bin Recycling Guide”, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency https://dataservices.epa.illinois.gov/recycle/curbside-bin-recycling-guide.htmldataservices.epa.illinois “What to Recycle and Where," Washington County, Oregon https://webapps.washingtoncountyor.gov/what-to-recycle/webapps.washingtoncountyor “Structure and Chemical Durability of Lead Crystal Glass," U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Health and Environmental Research Online, bibliographic record https://hero.epa.gov/reference/7182112/hero.epa “Recycling”, Austin Public Library https://library.austintexas.libguides.com/recycling

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards How to Dispose of or Recycle Floor Lamps, Hanging Lamps, Chandeliers, and Handheld Flashlights Lamps, chandeliers, and flashlights are usually made from mixed materials such as metal, glass, plastic, wiring, electronic components, and batteries. Because curbside recycling programs generally do not accept bulky, mixed-material items, the best disposal method depends on whether the item still works and what type of bulb or battery it contains. 1. Floor Lamps, Table Lamps, Hanging Lamps, and Chandeliers Donate, sell, or reuse working fixtures If a lamp or chandelier is clean, safe, and in working condition, reuse is usually the best option. Consider: Donating to a thrift store, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, charity, theater group, school, community workshop, or reuse center Selling through a local resale platform, consignment shop, garage sale, or neighborhood group Giving the fixture to someone who can repair, restore, or reuse it Before donating or selling, test the fixture, clean it, include any shades or mounting hardware, and disclose known problems such as damaged wiring, cracked sockets, missing parts, or a nonfunctioning switch. Do not donate fixtures with exposed wires, overheating parts, damaged plugs, loose electrical connections, or other safety hazards. Recycle nonworking fixtures Most floor lamps, hanging lamps, and chandeliers are not accepted in curbside recycling because they combine different materials. However, parts may be recyclable through other programs. Component Possible disposal or recycling option Steel, aluminum, brass, copper, or cast-metal frame Scrap-metal recycler Wiring, plugs, sockets, switches, or built-in electronic controls Electronics recycler, if accepted Glass shades, crystal pieces, or decorative glass Reuse center, specialty glass recycler, or local waste program Plastic parts and lamp shades Local solid-waste program, usually not curbside recycling Bulbs Handle separately based on bulb type Large or mixed-material fixture E-waste recycler, reuse center, bulky-item program, or landfill transfer station, depending on local rules Call the facility first. A scrap-metal recycler may accept a metal lamp base or chandelier frame, but it may require you to remove bulbs, batteries, shades, and nonmetal components beforehand. Handle light bulbs separately Remove bulbs before donating, recycling, or disposing of a fixture when it is safe to do so. The bulb type determines the correct disposal option. Incandescent and halogen bulbs: These are often accepted in household trash, but local rules vary. They should not be placed in curbside recycling because the glass differs from container glass. LED bulbs: LEDs do not contain mercury, but they contain electronic components. Many communities treat them as e-waste or accept them through specialty recycling programs. Check locally. Compact fluorescent lamps, fluorescent tubes, high-intensity discharge lamps, mercury-vapor lamps, and metal-halide lamps: These may contain mercury. Do not put them in curbside recycling. Take them to a household hazardous-waste program, lamp recycler, or participating retailer. Fluorescent and high-intensity-discharge lamps can release mercury and other metals if broken. If a fluorescent or CFL bulb breaks, keep people and pets away from the area, air out the room, and follow local or EPA cleanup instructions. Do not vacuum the debris immediately because this can spread mercury-containing dust. 2. Handheld Flashlights Remove and sort batteries Remove batteries from a flashlight if they are designed to be removable. Batteries should not go into curbside recycling. Battery rules depend on battery type and local requirements. Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries: Take to a battery-recycling location or household hazardous-waste program. Do not place them in trash or curbside recycling. Rechargeable nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and lithium batteries: Use a dedicated battery-recycling program. Button or coin batteries: Recycle through a battery collection program. Tape the terminals or bag them individually if instructed. Alkaline batteries: Rules differ by location. Some jurisdictions allow household disposal, but battery recycling is preferred when available. Cover exposed terminals on lithium-ion, rechargeable, button, or coin batteries with nonconductive tape, or place each battery in a separate bag, before transporting them. This helps prevent short circuits and fires. EPA identifies lithium-ion batteries as potentially ignitable and reactive when discarded. Reuse or recycle the flashlight If the flashlight works, donate or give it away with compatible batteries removed or clearly identified. For broken flashlights: Take rechargeable, LED, or electronic flashlights to an e-waste recycler if accepted. Take metal flashlights to a scrap-metal recycler if it accepts them. Ask a local solid-waste or electronics recycler whether it accepts mixed-material flashlights. Do not place a flashlight with a built-in rechargeable battery in household trash or curbside recycling. Do not dismantle a flashlight with a built-in battery unless the manufacturer or recycling facility gives specific instructions. 3. Quick safety checklist Do not place lamps, chandeliers, or flashlights in curbside recycling unless your local program specifically accepts them. Remove and separately manage light bulbs and removable batteries. Recycle mercury-containing bulbs through a hazardous-waste or lamp-recycling program. Keep lithium-ion and rechargeable batteries out of trash and curbside recycling. Tape exposed battery terminals before transport when required. Donate, sell, repair, or reuse safe working fixtures before recycling them. Contact the recycler before visiting because accepted items, preparation rules, and fees vary. ⚠️ Safety Disclaimer: Connecting The Dots Project provides this information for general educational purposes. Disposal requirements vary by location, equipment type, and the materials involved. Do not dismantle electrical fixtures, battery-powered devices, or other electrical equipment unless you are qualified to do so safely. Follow manufacturer instructions, local regulations, and the requirements of the receiving recycling or hazardous-waste facility.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Vapes and E-Cigarettes Vapes, e-cigarettes, pods, cartridges, and e-liquid containers should not be placed in household trash or curbside recycling bins. These products may contain lithium-ion batteries, nicotine residue, electronic components, plastic, and metal. If crushed, punctured, or damaged during collection, lithium-ion batteries can start fires. Nicotine-containing liquids and residues can also require hazardous-waste handling. 1. Use a household hazardous-waste program For most households, the safest disposal option is a local household hazardous-waste facility or collection event . Contact your city, county, or local solid-waste authority before going. Ask whether it accepts: Disposable vapes and e-cigarettes Rechargeable vape pens and devices Used pods, cartridges, tanks, and e-liquid bottles Devices with built-in lithium-ion batteries Damaged, leaking, swollen, recalled, or overheated devices Not all programs accept vapes, so always confirm first. EPA advises individuals to check local household hazardous-waste collection programs because disposal rules and accepted materials vary by community. 2. Keep the device intact Do not dismantle a vape unless the manufacturer or receiving facility provides specific instructions. Do not: Put a vape, e-cigarette, pod, cartridge, or e-liquid bottle in the trash. Put these products in curbside recycling. Place a complete vape device into a standard battery or electronics recycling box unless that location specifically accepts vapes. Cut open a disposable vape to remove its battery. Puncture, crush, burn, or take apart the device. Rinse a pod, cartridge, tank, or e-liquid bottle in a sink. Pour e-liquid into a sink, toilet, storm drain, or onto soil. A vape often contains both a battery and nicotine residue. Because of this combination, many ordinary battery and electronics recyclers cannot accept whole devices. EPA advises against rinsing nicotine liquids from devices and against putting e-cigarette components into trash or recycling containers. 3. Handle batteries carefully If the device has a removable battery , remove it only when the manufacturer and collection program instruct you to do so. Before transporting a removable lithium-ion battery: Cover exposed terminals with nonconductive tape, such as electrical tape. Place the battery in a separate plastic bag if requested by the recycler. Keep it away from metal objects, keys, coins, and other batteries. Store it temporarily in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, heat, children, pets, and flammable materials. Take removed batteries only to a battery-recycling program or hazardous-waste facility that confirms it accepts that battery type. If the battery is built into the vape, leave the device intact and use a facility that specifically accepts battery-containing vape devices. 4. Treat damaged devices differently A device that is swollen, crushed, leaking, hot, burned, or visibly damaged may present a higher fire and chemical-exposure risk. Do not take a damaged vape to a standard retail battery collection box unless the retailer specifically confirms it accepts damaged devices. Instead, contact: Your local household hazardous-waste program The product manufacturer A hazardous-waste contractor or recycler that accepts damaged lithium-ion batteries and nicotine-containing products Keep the device away from flammable materials and avoid handling it unnecessarily while you arrange disposal. 5. Check retailer, manufacturer, and mail-back options Some vape retailers, manufacturers, and specialty recycling companies offer take-back or mail-back programs. These programs vary greatly, and many do not accept nicotine-containing materials, disposable vapes, damaged devices, or products with built-in batteries. Before using a program, ask whether it accepts: Complete devices Disposable vapes Rechargeable devices Pods, cartridges, tanks, and e-liquid containers Devices containing nicotine residue Damaged or recalled products Products with built-in lithium-ion batteries Do not mail a vape or lithium-ion battery using ordinary shipping services unless an authorized program provides packaging materials and clear shipping instructions. Quick disposal checklist Keep the vape intact. Do not place it in trash or curbside recycling. Do not rinse, empty, crush, puncture, or dismantle it. Call the local household hazardous-waste program before taking it there. Recycle a removable battery separately only when a qualified program accepts it. Keep damaged or overheated devices away from heat and flammable materials. Use retailer, manufacturer, or mail-back programs only after confirming they accept your specific product. Proper disposal protects sanitation workers, recycling facilities, the environment, and your community from battery fires and nicotine contamination. ⚠️ Safety Disclaimer: Connecting The Dots Project provides this information for general educational purposes. Disposal requirements vary by location and appliance. Do not dismantle microwaves, gas appliances, or other electrical equipment unless you are qualified to do so safely. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and local regulations.