Central Coast residents have done it again, with the last Household Chemical CleanOut events for the region boasting a record-breaking number of vehicles attending and items collected.

Earlier this year 3,496 vehicles passed through the gates dropping off 132.9 tonnes of chemicals at the bi-annual event hosted by Central Coast Council in conjunction with the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE).

Now, new dates have been announced for the next Chemical Cleanout events: 1-2 August at Kariong, and 15-16 August at Charmhaven.

Council Waste Services and Business Development Unit Manager, Andrew Pearce said this was another incredible result that displayed the community’s dedication to the management of household waste and resource recovery.

“Materials collected at these events are safely disposed of by the EPA contractor, with items such as paint tins, lead acid batteries and motor oils being recycled or reused,” Mr Pearce said.

“It is no surprise paint was the most common item dropped off – other popular items included oil and fuels, gas cylinders, lead acid batteries, automotive products and pesticides.

“These events help keep hazardous materials out of our landfills, as many of these highly volatile products can react with other chemicals presenting a danger not only to our Waste Management Facilities, but also staff and customers at these locations.

“With COVID-19 restrictions still in place, extra precautions will be taken to ensure the continued safety of residents and staff onsite. At past Chemical CleanOut events, residents have been asked to remain in their vehicles while Council staff unload their chemicals, and this will again be the case.”

Mayor Lisa Matthews praised the community for their commitment to responsibly disposing of these hazardous chemicals.

“Disposing of household chemicals correctly helps remove the risk of hazardous chemicals contaminating our waterways and soils,” Mayor Matthews said.

“I am pleased that these events are always well attended by our community who are passionate about helping to reduce pollution, keeping hazardous materials out of our landfills, and proactively allowing for reusable materials and precious metals to be recovered.”

Only household quantities are accepted. For a full list of chemicals that can be dropped off call 131 555 or visit cleanout.com.au.

If you are unsure of whether something can be placed in your household bins or taken to our facilities, make sure to check the A-Z Waste Disposal and Recycling Guide at 1coast.com.au.

The Household Chemical CleanOut program is brought to you by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, Paintback and Central Coast Council.

Venues
Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August 2020
Event Park, Kariong (off Kangoo Road)
9am – 3.30pm

Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August 2020
Council’s Charmhaven Depot (corner Chelmsford and Depot Roads)
9am – 3.30pm