Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Drug Disposal and Donation Guidelines Unused and expired medicines should be managed carefully to prevent accidental poisoning, misuse, diversion, and environmental contamination. The safest option for most prescription and over-the-counter medicines is a drug take-back program , not the trash, sink, toilet, or curbside recycling. Medication donation is possible in limited circumstances, but it is tightly regulated. Most medications in home medicine cabinets are not eligible for donation , even if they are unopened or unexpired. Follow the rules of a state-approved drug repository or recognized donation organization rather than sending medicines to a charity on your own. 1. First choice: Use a drug take-back location FDA recommends using a drug take-back option for most unused, unwanted, or expired medicines. Authorized collection locations may accept prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, and controlled substances. They may operate through pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, law-enforcement agencies, and other DEA-authorized collectors. Take-back programs safely collect and destroy medicine. They do not generally recycle medications for reuse. Find a year-round disposal location Use these resources: DEA Year-Round Drug Disposal Locator: https://apps.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch DEA Take Back Day and collection-site finder: https://www.dea.gov/takebackday Call the DEA Diversion Control Division Registration Call Center: 1-800-882-9539 . Before visiting, contact the location to confirm: Hours and current availability Whether it accepts controlled substances Whether it accepts liquids, inhalers, sharps, creams, patches, or veterinary medicines Whether original containers are required Whether labels should be removed or personal information covered Whether the site accepts medicines from households, businesses, or long-term-care facilities 2. DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day DEA periodically holds National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, when temporary medicine-collection sites operate in communities across the country. Many local law-enforcement agencies also sponsor medication-disposal events. Search for event locations at: DEA Take Back Day Do not wait for a Take Back Day if you have access to a year-round collection site. DEA reports that thousands of pharmacies, hospitals, businesses, and police departments offer continuing drop-off options. 3. Mail-back programs If a local drop-off location is unavailable, some pharmacies, health plans, government programs, and other authorized providers offer prepaid medication mail-back envelopes. To use an authorized mail-back program: Confirm that the envelope accepts your medication type. Place eligible unused or expired medicine into the approved envelope. Seal the envelope according to its instructions. Mail it through the U.S. Postal Service as directed. Do not mail medication in an ordinary envelope or package. Use only a mail-back program that provides approved materials and instructions. FDA notes that mail-back envelopes are available for purchase from some retail pharmacies and online sellers. 4. Donation through state drug repositories Some states operate prescription drug repository programs , also called drug donation, reuse, or redistribution programs. These programs collect eligible medications and distribute them through approved pharmacies, clinics, hospitals, or charitable organizations to qualifying patients. State programs may help improve medication access for uninsured, underinsured, or low-income patients. However, each program has strict requirements regarding who may donate, which medications are accepted, packaging, labeling, storage history, expiration dates, and transfer procedures. As of late 2025, up to 38 states had enacted laws establishing prescription-drug return, reuse, or recycling programs, though program availability and eligibility differ by state. Common donation requirements A state repository may require medications to be: Unexpired, often with a minimum remaining shelf life In original, unopened, tamper-evident packaging Properly labeled Stored according to manufacturer requirements Free from signs of damage, contamination, or temperature exposure Approved by the specific repository program Donated through an eligible organization, pharmacy, health-care facility, or authorized individual Do not assume that a medicine can be donated just because it is sealed or unexpired. Many programs do not accept controlled substances, refrigerated medications, partial bottles, opened packages, compounded medicines, or medications that cannot be verified. To learn whether your state has a repository program, use: National Conference of State Legislatures, State Prescription Drug Repository Programs Important FDA caution FDA discourages individual consumers and small groups from donating medicines for international humanitarian relief because medicines from home supplies may not meet legal, quality, storage, labeling, or documentation requirements. The medicines may ultimately need to be destroyed. FDA and the World Health Organization also strongly discourage donating expired medicines. For international humanitarian donations, contact a qualified organization directly before collecting, mailing, or delivering any medicine: SIRUM: https://sirum.org/ World Medical Relief, Prescription Donations: https://www.worldmedicalrelief.org/prescription-donations FDA, Questions and Answers on Donating and Exporting Drugs for Humanitarian Efforts 1816 Do not mail prescription medicines internationally or donate medications to an overseas relief effort unless you are working through an organization that confirms the donation meets all applicable laws and quality standards. 5. At-home disposal only when necessary At-home disposal should be a backup option when a take-back site or authorized mail-back envelope is not available. Medicines on the FDA Flush List A small number of medicines have special instructions to flush immediately if a take-back option is not readily available. These medicines have a high risk of serious harm or death from accidental exposure, misuse, or abuse. Before flushing any medicine, check the official FDA Flush List: FDA Flush List for Certain Medicines Do not flush medicines unless they are on the FDA Flush List or the product labeling specifically instructs you to do so. Disposal in household trash If no take-back or mail-back option is available and the medicine is not on the FDA Flush List: Remove the medicine from its original container. Mix it with an undesirable substance, such as used coffee grounds, dirt, or cat litter. Do not crush tablets or capsules unless instructions specifically say it is safe to do so. Place the mixture into a sealed disposable container, such as a zip-top bag, empty can, or other container that will not leak. Place the sealed container in household trash. Scratch out or remove personal information from the empty prescription label before disposing of the original container. FDA recommends take-back programs first and describes household-trash disposal as an alternative when take-back and mail-back options are unavailable. Special items Item Recommended action Controlled substances Use a DEA-authorized take-back site or authorized mail-back program whenever possible Needles, syringes, lancets, and pen needles Do not place loose sharps in trash or recycling. Use an approved sharps container and follow local health-department or waste-authority rules Inhalers Use a take-back program or follow pharmacy and local disposal guidance. Do not puncture or burn Fentanyl patches and other medicated patches Follow FDA product instructions. Some patches have specific disposal directions because residual medicine may be dangerous Liquid medicines Ask the take-back site whether liquids are accepted. Keep liquids sealed in original containers when possible Veterinary medicines Ask the take-back site if animal medications are accepted. Many programs accept them, but policies vary Chemotherapy drugs, hazardous drugs, or injectable medications Contact the prescribing pharmacy, oncology provider, hospital, or hazardous-waste program for instructions Medical devices with built-in needles or batteries Follow device-specific instructions and local sharps or e-waste guidance What not to do Do not put medicines in curbside recycling. Do not give prescription medicine to another person, even if they have similar symptoms. Do not donate medication without confirmation that it is accepted by a state repository or qualified organization. Do not flush medicines unless they appear on FDA’s Flush List or product labeling directs flushing. Do not pour liquid medicine into sinks, toilets, storm drains, or onto soil unless the product instructions or FDA Flush List specifically direct it. Do not mail medications through ordinary mail or send them internationally without authorized program instructions. Do not place loose needles or syringes in household trash or recycling. Do not retain unused controlled substances longer than necessary if a safe take-back option is available. Quick checklist Review your medicine cabinet regularly and remove expired or unneeded medicine. Use a DEA-authorized take-back location as the first choice. Use an authorized mail-back envelope if a local drop-off location is unavailable. Check state drug repository rules before considering medication donation. Do not donate expired, opened, damaged, improperly stored, or unverified medications. Use the FDA Flush List only for medicines specifically listed there. Use household-trash disposal only when take-back and mail-back options are unavailable. Protect personal information on prescription labels. Keep medicines secured until they are donated or disposed of. Safety and Legal Notice Connecting The Dots Project provides this guide for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical, pharmaceutical, legal, regulatory, environmental, waste-management, emergency-response, or professional health-care advice. Medication-disposal requirements, donation eligibility, repository-program rules, mail-back availability, accepted drug types, controlled-substance rules, pharmacy policies, and state and federal laws vary. Before donating, transporting, mailing, recycling, or disposing of medication, consult the prescribing clinician, pharmacist, product label, manufacturer, local health department, state drug repository, DEA-authorized collector, and receiving organization for current instructions. Do not take, share, sell, alter, flush, discard, or donate prescription medicine except as directed by a qualified health professional, the product label, FDA guidance, or an authorized collection or repository program. Never give prescription medicine to another person. For a suspected overdose, poisoning, accidental ingestion, or medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number. In the United States, you may also contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for urgent poison-exposure guidance. Mention of any organization, pharmacy, company, collection program, repository, retailer, website, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement, affiliation, recommendation, or guarantee of eligibility, acceptance, service quality, safety, or legal compliance. Connecting The Dots Project does not guarantee that this information is complete, current, accurate, or suitable for every medication or situation. Use of this guide is at the reader’s own risk. Major pharmacies often offer disposal bins

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Pesticides and Mental Health A systematic review explores the potential link between chronic pesticide exposure in farmers and mental health issues In a study conducted by epidemiologist Freya Kamel and her team, it was found that out of the 19,000 individuals examined, those who had utilized both two categories of pesticides and seven specific pesticides had a higher likelihood of receiving a depression diagnosis. Out of the seven specific pesticides associated with depression diagnoses in Kamel's study, only aluminum phosphide, diazinon, and malathion remain registered and actively used, according to a statement from Cathy Milbourn, a spokesperson for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has revoked the registrations of ethylene dibromide, 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T), dieldrin, and parathion. Currently, aluminum phosphide, diazinon, and malathion are undergoing a review process by the EPA. In particular, individuals who had used organochlorine insecticides were found to have a risk of being diagnosed with depression that was up to 90 percent higher compared to those who had not used these insecticides. The use of some organochlorine insecticide chemicals has been banned in the U.S. but not all of them. Additionally, for fumigants (pesticides that, when applied to soil, form a gas to control pests that live in the soil), the increased risk of depression was as high as 80 percent in comparison to individuals who had not been exposed to them. Despite differences in the time and location of the studies, similar reports have been documented. The researchers observed comparable outcomes when they reevaluated the same cohort documented between 1993 and 1997. Among farmers with the greatest cumulative days of pesticide exposure over their lifetimes, there was a 50 percent elevated likelihood of receiving a depression diagnosis at a later time. In a separate study conducted in France, farmers who used herbicides were almost twice as likely to receive treatment for depression compared to non-users. This risk appeared to be escalated when herbicide applicators had been engaged in such activities for over 19 years, involving a study of 567 farmers. These findings may imply that chronic exposure to low pesticide levels over time might elevate the risk of depression. Additionally, the potential link between pesticide poisoning (significant exposure in a short timeframe) and depression has also been studied. The farmers in Colorado, who experienced pesticide poisoning, had twice the risk of developing depression over the subsequent three years. Furthermore, within the pesticide applicators from North Carolina and Iowa, those who had been affected by pesticide poisoning were 2.5 times more likely to receive a diagnosis of depression at a later point in time. While these studies are based on statistics and don't establish a direct link between pesticides and depression, animal experiments suggest that such a connection is plausible. According to Cheryl Beseler, an environmental health researcher at Colorado State University, pesticides have been shown in rat tests to alter brain cells, neurotransmitters, and the production of protective acids. Kamel emphasized that there's little doubt that pesticides can influence brain functions. Experiments have shown that pesticides damage rats' brain tissue and receptors, and they may also have indirect effects by promoting other health issues linked to depression. For instance, Dr. Beate Ritz, a neurologist and professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, discovered that Californians exposed to pesticides are more prone to developing Parkinson's disease, a condition characterized by a dopamine deficiency that can lead to depression. At last, modern agriculture is a complex field with various challenges. It must provide affordable, safe food, ensure farmer and consumer safety, and maximize productivity and profitability. Balancing these factors is extremely complicated due to the need to reduce herbicides and pesticides, adopt sustainable practices, and meet changing consumer preferences. Biotechnology and regulatory frameworks also influence this complex landscape. Researchers and policymakers are actively seeking innovative solutions to address these challenges and maintain a safe and sustainable food supply. In the meanwhile, it is deeply concerning to consider the exposure of hard-working farmers, who work tirelessly to provide food for our tables, to these chemicals that possess the potential to negatively affect their well-being. We must pursue and advocate farming practices that are both safe and sustainable. Also, as end consumers, it is crucial for us to ensure that we thoroughly wash produce before consumption. ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling Guidelines for Cellphone Cases and Sleeves Cellphone cases, tablet cases, phone sleeves, screen protectors, wallet cases, and protective covers are usually made from mixed materials. Common materials include silicone, plastic, rubber, leather, fabric, foam, metal, magnets, adhesives, and electronics. Because these materials are often combined, most phone cases and sleeves do not belong in curbside recycling. The best option is to reuse, donate, repurpose, or use a specialty recycling program when available. Reuse, Donate, or Sell If the case or sleeve is clean, intact, and fits a phone model that is still in use, reuse is usually the best option. Consider: Giving it to a friend, family member, school, or community organization. Donating it to a thrift store, phone-reuse program, shelter, or community group that accepts accessories. Selling unused or collectible cases through a local resale platform. Keeping it as a backup case if you still own the compatible phone. Pairing it with a donated or resold phone. Before donating or giving away a case: Clean it with mild soap and water or follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Remove personal labels, stickers, cards, identification, or stored items. Check for cracks, sharp edges, damaged magnets, peeling material, or broken straps. Confirm that the case does not block charging ports, cameras, buttons, speakers, or emergency features. Do not donate cases that are heavily soiled, moldy, sticky, torn, cracked, or unsafe to use. Recycling by Material Plastic, silicone, rubber, and TPU cases Most plastic, silicone, rubber, and thermoplastic polyurethane, or TPU, phone cases are not accepted in curbside recycling. They may be made from multiple plastic types, contain coatings or adhesives, or be too small for standard sorting equipment. Possible options include: Manufacturer take-back or mail-back programs. Specialty accessory recycling programs. Local recycling centers that accept rigid plastics or small durable plastic items. Community collection events for electronics accessories. Disposal in household trash if no reuse or specialty recycling option exists and local rules allow it. Do not place phone cases in curbside recycling unless your local recycling program specifically accepts them. Leather cases and sleeves Leather phone cases and sleeves are generally not recyclable through curbside programs. If clean and usable, donate, sell, repair, or repurpose them. Worn leather may be used for crafts, patches, small storage pouches, or other projects. Do not compost leather that has been dyed, coated, glued, treated, lined with synthetic materials, or attached to metal hardware. Fabric, neoprene, and foam sleeves Fabric, neoprene, foam, and padded phone sleeves are generally not accepted in curbside recycling. If usable, donate or reuse them for: Storing charging cables, earbuds, glasses, small tools, or travel items. Protecting cameras, small electronics, or accessories. Organizing bags, drawers, or backpacks. Craft or sewing projects. If the sleeve is not reusable, check for local textile-recycling programs. Textile recyclers may accept clean fabric items, but they may not accept foam-lined, heavily padded, coated, or mixed-material sleeves. Metal and magnetic components Some phone cases contain metal kickstands, rings, magnets, metal plates, chains, or card holders. These small components are usually too small for curbside recycling. If practical, remove large metal pieces only when they can be separated safely without sharp tools or damage. Take metal components to a scrap-metal recycler only if it confirms it accepts small items. Do not dismantle cases with embedded magnets, batteries, or electronics. Smart and Battery-Containing Cases Some phone accessories contain electronics or batteries, including battery cases, charging cases, illuminated cases, tracking cases, Bluetooth-connected accessories, and cases with built-in power banks. Do not place these products in household trash or curbside recycling. Instead: Check for a manufacturer take-back or mail-back program. Take the item to an electronics recycler or household hazardous-waste facility that confirms it accepts battery-containing accessories. Do not remove a built-in battery unless the manufacturer or recycler specifically instructs you to do so. Do not use standard battery collection bins for swollen, leaking, damaged, hot, or recalled battery cases unless the location specifically accepts them. Lithium-ion batteries can create fire risks if crushed, punctured, or short-circuited. EPA recommends taking lithium-ion batteries and devices containing them to an electronics recycler or household hazardous-waste program instead of household trash. Screen Protectors and Packaging Glass and plastic screen protectors are generally not recyclable in curbside bins. Tempered-glass protectors are not the same as bottle or jar glass, while plastic films may be too small or mixed with adhesive layers. Dispose of cracked or used screen protectors according to local waste rules. Keep broken glass contained to prevent cuts. Recycle clean cardboard packaging through curbside recycling if accepted locally. Recycle plastic packaging only if it is accepted by your local program. What Not to Do Do not place phone cases, sleeves, screen protectors, or mixed-material accessories in curbside recycling unless your local program specifically accepts them. Do not place battery cases or charging cases in household trash. Do not dismantle battery-powered cases, electronic accessories, or embedded-magnet cases unless instructed by the manufacturer or recycler. Do not donate dirty, damaged, unsafe, or unusable accessories. Do not assume that a thrift store, textile recycler, or recycling center accepts phone accessories without confirming first. Quick Checklist Reuse, donate, sell, or repurpose clean and usable cases and sleeves. Keep cases paired with compatible phones when donating or reselling a device. Check manufacturer or specialty recycling programs for plastic, silicone, rubber, and mixed-material cases. Keep phone cases and sleeves out of curbside recycling unless local rules specifically allow them. Take battery cases, charging cases, and electronic accessories to an electronics recycler or household hazardous-waste facility. Dispose of broken screen protectors according to local waste rules. Call the receiving organization before visiting to confirm acceptance requirements. Safety and Legal Notice Connecting The Dots Project provides this guide for general educational and informational purposes only. Disposal rules, accepted materials, recycling options, fees, and preparation requirements vary by location, product type, condition, and receiving facility. Before donating, recycling, transporting, or disposing of an item, consult the manufacturer, local government or solid-waste authority, and receiving facility for current instructions. Do not dismantle accessories containing batteries, electronics, magnets, sharp components, or adhesives unless you are trained and specifically instructed to do so.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Association of Food Deserts and Food Swamps With Obesity-Related Cancer Mortality in the US A recent US study reveals that food inequities contribute to a higher risk of dying from obesity-related cancers. Social factors, influenced by geography and public policies, can shape health outcomes. Wealthy neighborhoods typically have more supermarkets and access to healthy diets than underserved communities, limiting access to affordable fresh food, especially in areas with inadequate public transit. According to the study published on the JAMA network, thirteen types of cancer are linked to obesity, accounting for 40% of US cancer cases. "In this ecologic cross-sectional study that included 3038 counties or county-equivalents, those with the highest food swamp score had a 77% increased odds of high obesity-related cancer mortality." This challenges the belief that diet alone may be able to reduce cancer risk. It highlights the importance of addressing food inequities and creating walkable neighborhoods and community gardens. Such systemic solutions require recognizing historical and structural factors like community disinvestment and systemic racism. We've created a list of food banks, food assistance programs, and community gardens. Please share. Thank you! https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tTuwI8vAj4cFgyMUcYHuiT5tm1E0s-V1/view?usp=sharing ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Seedballs to combat deforestation in Kanya Seedballs to combat deforestation in Kanya Kenya Kenya faces an incredible deforestation challenge. The loss of habitat threatens wildlife, including giraffes, which are now vulnerable to extinction due to deforestation across Africa. A simple yet powerful solution is gaining momentum in the fight against deforestation: seed balls. These small spheres, comprised of seeds, clay, and organic matter, offer a sustainable approach to reforestation and habitat restoration. Led by organizations like Seedballs Kenya, over 42 million seed balls have been distributed across the country, promoting the planting of native tree species in diverse ecosystems. The tree seeds we utilize are exclusively procured from the Kenya Forestry Seed Center, which maintains an extensive collection of seeds from approximately 220 tree species gathered from over 600 locations across Kenya. In addition, seed balls feature a natural organic coating. This coating incorporates salvaged charcoal dust sourced from urban charcoal vending sites in Nairobi. Combined with soluble and nutritious organic binders, this coating fosters successful germination and protection of seeds. Seed balls are distributed through community workshops, partnerships with NGOs and government agencies, direct sales, school programs, and sometimes aerial seeding. Schools distribute them to children who use the balls with slingshots. These methods aim to engage a wide audience and maximize the impact of reforestation efforts. So far 51 million seeds have been distributed. By empowering communities and fostering environmental stewardship, seed balls are not only restoring degraded landscapes but also strengthening the bond between people and nature. Sources: https://www.seedballskenya.com/seedballs... )%20in%20Kenya . https://www.bbc.com/news/business-44044267

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Expired Condiments & Sauces: Disposal & Recycling Options Expired condiments and sauces, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, soy sauce, or salad dressings, should be disposed of properly to avoid contamination and waste buildup. Disposal Options: Check for Donation Possibilities – If unopened and still within a safe consumption period, some local food banks or community fridges may accept them. Composting (for Certain Items) – Vinegar-based condiments (e.g., mustard) and organic sauces (e.g., tomato sauce) can be composted in small amounts. Avoid dairy-based or oily dressings. Household Trash – If composting isn’t an option, empty the contents into the trash and rinse the container before disposal. Recycling the Containers: Glass Bottles & Jars – Rinse and recycle if your local program accepts them. Plastic Bottles – Check for recycling symbols and rinse before placing them in the recycling bin. Metal Cans – Rinse and recycle if applicable. Squeeze Pouches & Multi-Layered Packaging – Often not recyclable curbside, but some brands participate in recycling programs (e.g., TerraCycle). Important Warnings: Avoid pouring expired sauces down the drain – Greasy or thick sauces can clog pipes and harm water systems. Do not recycle dirty containers – Food residue can contaminate recyclables. Check local recycling guidelines – Not all plastics and glass bottles are accepted in every area.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Quest for Lost Appalachian Apples Photo by Mr. Tom Brown In the charming town of Clemmons, North Carolina, a retired chemical engineer named Tom Brown has walked on a remarkable journey that reads like a page-turning adventure novel. Tom has unearthed flavors that had nearly extinct - the world of Appalachia's lost heirloom apples. Vibrant green, pink-streaked yellow, and deep purples of apples arranged in baskets, Bitter Buckingham, White Winter Jon, and Billy Sparks Sweetening... Long before the convenience of modern supermarkets, these apples were more than just a snack; they were a way of life. Each variety had a purpose, whether it was for frying, baking, making vinegar, or simply enjoying fresh off the tree. The apples were the crown jewels of gardens, a source of pride and connection within communities. But as time marched on, the landscape changed. Urban migration, industrialization, and the rise of commercial agriculture cast a shadow over these once-beloved apples. Varieties vanished, traditions waned, and the diversity of flavors that once adorned the land was threatened with extinction. Tom went on a treasure hunt through the hills and valleys of Appalachia. He became an apple detective, piecing together clues from local tales of elders and dusty historical records. The result? An orchard unlike any other. Tom's Orchard, aptly named Heritage Apples, is a living sanctuary for these heirloom varieties. With over 700 rare apple varieties and counting, it stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication and a symbol of hope for the preservation of culinary history. Chefs and cider makers have eagerly embraced Tom's rediscovered treasures, infusing their creations with flavors that have long been dormant. The aroma of pies made from Rusty Coats apples, with their pear-like softness and honeyed sweetness, fills kitchens with nostalgia and wonder. Craft cider enthusiasts sip on Hewes Virginia Crab and Arkansas Black, savoring the revival of flavors that were nearly lost to time. So, the next time you sink your teeth into an apple, take a moment to savor not just the taste, but the story behind it. The world of heritage apples may have faded into the background, but thanks to Tom's passion and perseverance, it's finding its way back into the spotlight, reminding us all that sometimes the most captivating stories are hidden in the most unexpected places. Sources: https://interestingengineering.com/.../retired-engineer ... https://mymodernmet.com/tom-brown-apple-search/ https://www.atlasobscura.com/.../heritage-appalachian-apples

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Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Oil-Based Paint and Paint Thinner Oil-based paints and paint thinners are widely used for their durability and smooth finishes. However, they contain chemicals that are hazardous to the environment and human health. Proper disposal is crucial to ensure safety and prevent contamination. Here’s how you should dispose of oil-based paint and paint thinner: 1. Oil-Based Paint: a. Never Dispose of in the Trash or Down the Drain: Hazardous Waste : Oil-based paint is considered hazardous waste and should never be thrown in the regular trash, poured down the drain, or into stormwater drains. These chemicals can contaminate water sources, soil, and negatively affect wildlife. b. Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facilities: Drop-off Locations : The best way to dispose of oil-based paint is to take it to a household hazardous waste collection facility . Many local municipalities organize special collection events or offer permanent drop-off locations for hazardous waste, including oil-based paint. Check Local Regulations : Contact your local waste management or environmental agency to find a facility near you that accepts oil-based paint and paint-related products. c. Reduce Waste by Using Leftover Paint: Use Leftovers : If you have leftover oil-based paint, try using it for touch-ups, a new project, or donating it to community organizations like schools or churches that may find it useful. Store Properly : Seal the can tightly and store it in a cool, dry place if you need to keep it for future use. This prevents the paint from drying out and reduces waste. 2. Paint Thinner: a. Reuse or Properly Dispose: Reuse Paint Thinner : If your paint thinner is relatively clean, it can be reused. Simply let it settle, pour off the clean portion into another container, and keep the residue for proper disposal. Dispose at HHW Facility : Like oil-based paint, paint thinner is a flammable and toxic substance . It must be disposed of at a household hazardous waste facility . Never pour it down the drain or dispose of it in regular trash. b. Do Not Dispose of in Landfills or Drains: Chemical Contamination : Pouring paint thinner into landfills or storm drains can cause significant environmental harm by contaminating water supplies and harming wildlife. Always take the proper steps to dispose of it. c. Cleaning Brushes and Containers: Proper Cleaning : If you need to clean brushes or containers used with oil-based paint, always use a container that can be sealed and bring it to a hazardous waste facility once you’ve collected enough residue. Do not dump leftover paint thinner in sinks or toilets. 3. Safe Alternatives: Non-Toxic Paint Options : Consider using water-based paints for future projects. These paints are easier to clean with water and do not require the disposal of harmful chemicals. Non-Toxic Paint Thinner Alternatives : Some eco-friendly products can help clean brushes or thin paint without using toxic solvents. Look for products labeled as low-VOC or non-toxic . 4. Key Takeaways: Never dispose of oil-based paint or paint thinner in regular trash, drains, or stormwater systems. Take these substances to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility for safe disposal. Reuse leftover paint or donate it if possible to minimize waste. Store paint and thinner properly to prevent accidents or unnecessary disposal. Consider using non-toxic, water-based paints to reduce reliance on hazardous chemicals in future projects. By following these guidelines, you will help protect the environment and reduce the risks associated with the disposal of oil-based paint and paint thinner. Proper disposal ensures that these hazardous substances do not harm the environment or wildlife.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Federal Court OKs Radioactive Water Release into Hudson River, Source of Drinking Water for 100,000 A recent federal court ruling has approved Holtec International, the company decommissioning the Indian Point Energy Center in Buchanan, New York, to release about 45,000 gallons of treated water containing tritium into the Hudson River. 😱 What the Court Decided In September 2025, U.S. District Judge struck down New York State’s “Save the Hudson” law, which had banned the discharge of radioactive wastewater during decommissioning. The judge ruled that federal law preempts state regulation in matters involving radiological safety, giving primary authority to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). 💦 What’s in the Water According to Holtec and NRC filings, the treated water contains tritium, a radioactive form of hydrogen that forms part of water molecules and cannot be removed with conventional treatment methods (NRC Backgrounder on Tritium). Other radionuclides and heavy metals are reported to be below detectable or regulatory limits, though not necessarily zero. 👦 How Many People Depend on the Hudson The Hudson River Drinking Water Intermunicipal Council (Hudson 7) reports that about 100,000 people in the Hudson Valley rely on the river for drinking and bathing after treatment (Hudson 7, 2024 Fact Sheet). Drinking-water treatment removes most contaminants, but tritium passes through conventional filtration, meaning safety relies on dilution and monitoring rather than removal. 🧪 Safety and Scientific Context Tritium is reportedly considered low-risk when properly regulated and diluted, emitting low-energy beta radiation that cannot penetrate skin and does not bioaccumulate, unlike substances such as mercury or cesium. Studies say, most tritium is eliminated from the human body within about 10 days. Even for people who drink tritiated water daily, the total radiation dose over time remains far below levels that could cause sickness or serious health effects, if the discharge contains only tritium and stays within federal safety limits, according to the U.S. NRC. However, independent scientists and environmental groups have raised questions about transparency and verification, noting that even trace amounts can enter river sediments or aquatic ecosystems over time. Public oversight and independent testing are essential to ensure long-term environmental safety. ‼️ Controversy The discharge plan remains controversial because what is considered “safe” depends on assumptions about dilution, monitoring, and cumulative exposure. Environmental organizations, including Riverkeeper and Scenic Hudson, continue to advocate for independent testing before any release. This debate is not just about the Hudson River; it highlights key challenges of clean energy, even when the power produced is low-carbon. Sources: https://yonkerstimes.com/judge-indian-point-can-dump.../ https://enviropolitics.com/judge-rules-radioactive-water.../ https://midhudsonnews.com/.../local-officials.../ https://www.reuters.com/.../new-york-law-curbing.../ https://www.riverkeeper.org/ https://www.scenichudson.org/ https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML0620/ML062020079.pdf #hudsonriver #newyork #ny #legal #litigation #court #CourtRuling #radioactive #radiation #cleanenergy #energy #environment #pollution #contaminatedwater #heavymetals #health #greenenergy #ourchallenge #nature #river #water #ctdp #connectingthedotsproject ←Previous Next→

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards Disposal and Recycling of Toothpaste, Food, and Cosmetic Tubes Toothpaste, cooking, ointment, lotion, cosmetic, and other squeeze tubes often look recyclable, but many are made from several layers of plastic, foil, aluminum, adhesives, and barrier materials. A recycling symbol or resin number alone does not guarantee that a tube belongs in curbside recycling. The best option is to use as much product as possible, remove excess residue, follow the package’s recycling label, and confirm acceptance with your local recycling program. If local acceptance is unclear, place the tube in the trash or use a verified specialty recycling program rather than contaminating curbside recycling. Toothpaste tubes Many newer toothpaste tubes are designed to be compatible with high-density polyethylene, or HDPE, recycling systems. However, local material-recovery facilities may still reject them because tube acceptance depends on local sorting equipment, packaging format, size, and program rules. Best options Check the tube for a How2Recycle label or recycling instructions. Empty the tube as completely as practical. If your local program accepts the specific tube, follow its directions, including whether to replace or discard the cap. If your local program does not accept it, use a specialty oral-care program or place the empty tube in the trash. Do not put full or leaking toothpaste tubes into recycling. The free U.S. Colgate Oral Care Recycling Program , operated by TerraCycle, accepts used or empty toothpaste tubes and caps from all brands, along with toothbrushes, toothpaste cartons, outer packaging, and floss containers. Items should be as empty and dry as possible before shipment. Electric and battery toothbrushes are not accepted in this program. Find instructions through TerraCycle’s Colgate Oral Care Recycling Program . Program enrollment, public drop-off locations, and shipping procedures can change, so verify current availability before collecting materials. Food and cooking tubes Food tubes may hold tomato paste, mustard, mayonnaise, icing, purees, spice pastes, sauces, flavor concentrates, or other products. Tube construction varies widely. Type of tube Best option Notes Aluminum or steel tube Recycle with metal containers only if locally accepted Empty and rinse as much as practical; confirm whether caps and nozzles must be removed Plastic tube with a clear local recycling label Curbside recycling only if locally accepted Empty, rinse if needed, and follow cap instructions Flexible or mixed-material tube Trash or specialty recycling Do not assume #4 plastic or a triangle means it is curbside recyclable Tube with food residue that cannot be removed Trash Food contamination can reduce recycling quality Tube with metal or plastic cap Follow local cap guidance Some programs prefer caps attached; others require removal Do not cut food tubes open unless the local recycler specifically accepts flattened or cut packaging. Sharp edges from metal tubes can injure people handling waste, and small pieces can be lost in sorting equipment. Cosmetic and personal-care tubes Cosmetic and personal-care tubes may contain lotions, sunscreen, makeup, hair products, face cream, ointments, creams, gels, or other products. They are often mixed-material packaging and may include pumps, metal springs, plastic caps, foil seals, mirrors, brushes, or applicators. What to do Use as much product as possible. Remove pumps, droppers, brushes, mirrors, applicators, foil seals, or other detachable components if your local program requires it. Check the package’s label and your local recycling instructions. Recycle only if the tube format and material are accepted locally. Use a manufacturer take-back or specialty program when available. Put mixed-material tubes in the trash when no verified recycling option exists. Do not rinse cosmetics, sunscreen, ointments, lotions, or other personal-care products into a sink, storm drain, or waterway solely to prepare a container for recycling. Wipe out as much product as practical with a paper towel, and follow local waste rules for the remaining package. Metal tubes Fully metal tubes may be accepted by some programs as metal packaging or scrap metal, but local acceptance varies. The tube should be as empty as possible, with product residue removed to the extent practical. Before recycling a metal tube: Check whether your local program accepts aluminum or steel tubes. Confirm whether plastic caps, nozzles, and foil seals must be removed. Do not puncture, burn, or crush tubes that held hazardous products, such as certain glues, solvents, chemicals, medications, pesticides, or flammable materials. Follow label instructions for any tube that contained a hazardous, corrosive, toxic, flammable, or pressurized product. Keep these out of curbside recycling Unless your local program specifically accepts them, keep these items out: Mixed-material toothpaste tubes Flexible food and cosmetic tubes Tubes with product still inside Pumps, sprayers, applicators, brushes, and droppers Foil sachets and sample packets Metal tubes containing hazardous chemicals or medications Small loose caps, unless your program says to leave them attached Packaging labeled “Not Yet Recyclable” or “Do Not Recycle” How2Recycle advises following local guidance and placing an uncertain package in the trash rather than contaminating the recycling stream. Reduce tube waste Choose products in widely accepted bottles, jars, bars, tablets, refill systems, or bulk formats when practical. Use reusable dispensers only when they can be cleaned safely and the product is appropriate for transfer. Buy only the amount you are likely to use before expiration. Select products with a clear local recycling label or manufacturer take-back program. Use specialty collection programs only when you can collect enough material to minimize shipping impacts. Safety and Legal Notice This guide is for educational purposes only. Tube materials, recycling labels, local acceptance rules, and specialty programs vary by product, manufacturer, recycler, and location. Confirm current requirements with your local recycling provider, the product manufacturer, or the receiving program before recycling or mailing any package. Do not place hazardous, flammable, toxic, corrosive, pressurized, medical, or pesticide-containing tubes in curbside recycling or household trash unless the product label and local waste authority specifically permit it. Do not burn, puncture, crush, or cut open tubes that held hazardous substances. Keep product labels and follow all manufacturer disposal instructions. Do not rinse personal-care products, cosmetics, medications, chemicals, or concentrated food products into storm drains, waterways, or the environment.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards LAND < Back Insect Collapse: Alarming 72.4% Population Decline in Remote Wilderness in Colorado, 20 year study says Insect Collapse: Alarming 72.4% Population Decline in Remote Wilderness in Colorado, 20 year study says A 20-year study in Colorado has revealed a dramatic decline in flying insect populations even in areas far from human activity. Researchers monitoring insects in remote wilderness sites found that the number of flying insects has dropped by more than 70 percent since the study began, highlighting a serious ecological concern. Insects of the study subjects: Diptera (flies) – many small flies, gnats, midges Hymenoptera (wasps, bees, some small flying ants) – mostly pollinators Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) – mainly smaller species present in the meadows Coleoptera (beetles) – only the flying beetles were counted, not ground-dwelling species The decline occurred in locations largely untouched by urban development, agriculture, or pesticide use, which are commonly associated with insect losses. Because these human pressures were minimal, the researchers concluded that rising summer temperatures were the most likely driver. Warmer summers, consistent with climate change trends, can disrupt insect development, reproduction, and survival. While climate change is strongly implicated, the researchers do note that ecosystems are complex. Other factors such as long-range pollution or invasive species could play minor roles, but the magnitude of the decline in these protected areas strongly points to temperature increases as a key factor. Insects play a crucial role in ecosystems. They pollinate plants, recycle nutrients, and serve as food for birds, mammals, and amphibians. A loss of more than 72.4 percent could have cascading effects throughout food webs and ecosystem stability. This study demonstrates that climate change can impact even the most protected wilderness areas. Preserving natural habitats alone is not enough to prevent ecological collapse. Global efforts to mitigate climate change are essential to protect insects and the broader ecosystems that depend on them. Sources: Sockman, K. W., & colleagues. (2025). Climate-driven decline of flying insects in Colorado’s remote wilderness: A 20-year observational study. Ecosphere, 15(9), e4620. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecs2.4620 Sustainability Times. (2025, September 22). 72% of insects gone: Scientists discover climate change annihilating life in Colorado’s most remote wilderness areas. https://www.sustainability-times.com/.../72-of-insects.../ ScienceDaily. (2025, September 22). Flying insect populations plummet 72% in Colorado wilderness, long-term study finds #nature #environment #sustainable #sustainability #wilderness #insects #insectcollapse #biodiversity #globalwarming #climatechange #insectcollapse #colorado #ctdp #connectingthedotsproject #ecofriendly #protection #agriculture #pesticide #pollinators #nutrients #ecosystem #ecologicalcollapse