On April 27 and 28, the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority collected over 76,000 pounds of household hazardous waste from residents of 1,251 households.
In all, 1,136 vehicles brought hazardous chemicals. Residents from 34 of the county’s 35 municipalities participated. There were several dozen people from six surrounding counties and from as far away as Snyder County that came to participate.
In addition to the pesticides and other household hazardous waste, nearly four miles of fluorescent tubes were accepted for recycling.
In addition to CCRRA employees, volunteers from Penn State Environmental Health and Safety and Bellefonte Area Middle School were on-site to assist in checking vehicles.
The event was co-sponsored by Centre County Recycling & Refuse Authority, the department of Environmental Protection and Agriculture.
MXI of Langhorne, PA was the contractor handing the waste collected.
“Two immature bald eagles soared above the collection for a time on Saturday as if to nod their thanks.” said Joanne Shafer, Centre County’s Deputy Executive Director/Recycling Coordinator. “I think that folks are really aware of their environment and they want to protect the beauty of our county. Clean air and water are key to the economy of our area.”
“Many county residents were aware of their carbon footprint and combined trips and helped neighbors,” added Shafer.
Collection and disposal costs of all 76,000 pounds will be split between the Household Hazardous Waste Fund, DEP & CHEMSWEEP.
If you missed this collection, look for information next spring. The Centre County Recycling & Refuse Authority will be holding another Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event in 2019.
For more information on programs, initiatives and other upcoming events, visit the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority website.
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