Central Coast Council is encouraging residents to clear out unwanted and out-of-date hazardous items from homes, garages, and sheds to be correctly disposed of for free at the first Chemical CleanOut event to be held for twelve months.

With previous Chemical CleanOut events cancelled due to the pandemic, community members will have the chance to safely drop off their chemicals for free at Event Park, off Kangoo Road, Kariong on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 February as well as at Long Jetty Council Depot on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 March from 9am to 3.30pm daily.

Council Unit Manager Waste Services and Business Development, Andrew Pearce said the events were an opportune time to responsibly dispose of hazardous materials at no cost.

“These events allow residents to dispose of hazardous materials safely, while also allowing for the recovery of reusable materials. We expect this be of particular interest to those residents that have experienced household build-up of these items during the pandemic,” Mr Pearce said.

“Incorrect disposal of chemicals, such as dumping, placing in the bin or pouring down drains are not only offences that attract fines and penalties, but they can also cause serious environmental effects by contaminating our waterways and landfill sites.

“This is just one of the many resource recovery initiatives offered to residents beyond their household waste and recycling collection services, which the community can discover more about by checking the A-Z Waste Disposal and Recycling Guide at 1coast.com.au.

“We would like to also remind residents to stay COVID-safe by remaining inside their vehicles and wearing a mask where required to ensure the safety of all staff and residents attending the event.”

Items that can be dropped off include pesticides, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, fluorescent globes and tubes as well as any unknown or unidentified chemicals which are accepted for identification and correct disposal.

Council Administrator, Rik Hart was impressed by the ongoing commitment from the community to responsibly dispose of problem waste.

“In previous years, CleanOut events across the region have attracted consistent, record-breaking numbers. It is clear residents are eager to do the right thing and keep these hazardous materials out of landfills,” Mr Hart said.

“We remain committed to the safety of the community and event operators onsite, so these events will be hosted in line with any COVID-19 restrictions in place.”

Up to 100L of paint can be accepted per vehicle, in containers of 20L or less. For all other items, only household quantities of up to 20L or 20kg are accepted.

Council urges residents to transport material safely, keep chemicals in the original container and remain in their vehicles when dropping off hazardous waste.

For the full list of chemicals that can be dropped off call 131 555 or visit the NSW Environment Protection Authority website.

The Household Chemical CleanOut program is a NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded by the waste levy, brought to you by the NSW Environment Protection Authority, Paintback and Central Coast Council.

For more information you can also search 'chemical cleanout' at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

ENDS