The Observer, March 28, 2008
Volume XL, Issue 22
Global Scorning: City should reduce hazardous waste
Our Cleveland community is not exactly the best when it comes to the recycling and cleaning of hazardous waste. In fact, the reputation of the burning Cuyahoga River will probably linger on our track record for many more decades to come. But for the pure comedy of it, or maybe to avoid the environmental repercussions of our past abuse toward Mother Gaia, we can take some tips from more environmentally renowned cities to help put Cleveland on track for ecological prosperity.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has estimated that Americans produce about 1.6 million tons of household hazardous waste per year. These household waste products include basic products that most families in Cleveland own, such as oven cleaner, turpentine, and pool chemicals. Because most states do not write laws to require recycling or proper disposal of household waste materials, it is usually up to local communities to create their own regulations. However, most communities do not have the expertise or resources to implement an effective recycling/disposal system. Some communities from around the country have mastered local hazardous waste programs, and by observing some of their successful programs we can pick up some tips that have proven practical and beneficial.
Recycling programs are evidently extensive on the West Coast. The city of San Francisco created an online database of local collection points for citizens to drop off their household hazardous waste. Additionally, a private company called SF Recycling & Disposal recycles 87 percent of the hazardous waste received, with the remaining 13 percent incinerated in a facility with special permits. This company also recycles latex paint, which is actually non-toxic, and makes it available to local residents for free.
According to Kolin Anglin, the president of the North American Hazardous Materials Management Association, the key for the best program is offering a wide range of services and convenience. Portland, Ore. and its nearby cities and counties share the responsibility of managing hazardous waste. Here, collection facilities are open Monday through Saturday, year-round, and do not charge residents for their disposal. Residents in the Portland area expect the availability and accessibility of these kinds of programs, which is what leads to additional development. Furthermore, King County in Seattle incorporates the "EnviroStar" certification for landscapers who help reduce the use of pesticides and adopt non-toxic lawn care techniques. The county also features three hazardous household waste collection sites open year-round.
Local household hazardous waste programs have not been completely successful. The state of Maine gave about $1.3 million in grants to its local communities to create hazardous waste collection sites, but some communities ran through their budgets hastily. Nevertheless, the community is attempting to resuscitate the facility through an increase in advertising and community support for the collection sites.
I think that the city of Cleveland can whole-heartedly say that it is ready to officially bid adieu to the burning river reputation and give a warm, Midwest welcome to new local laws and recycling programs. The process, funding, and design of hazardous waste collection sites may not be an easy endeavor, but if the West Coast can do it, then why can't we?
