Preventing Pollution, Pesticide Container Management
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Pollution Prevention Unit
A pamphlet from Missouri's Department of Natural Resources on pesticide container management.
From handling 1-ounce bottles to 2 1/2-gallon jugs to 300-gallon minibulk containers, the management of pesticide containers poses a dilemma for many pesticide users. If improperly managed, the containers can be a significant source of contamination. But with a little planning, pesticide users can safely and legally manage waste containers while taking steps to prevent pollution.
Whether it's pesticide containers, outdated chemicals, or office paper, producing waste is expensive. The buyer pays for the material at purchase, then pays again for disposal of the leftovers, like containers and excess chemicals. Pesticide users can reduce costs and get the most for the money spent if they take steps to
- REDUCE the quantity of waste containers,
- REUSE refillable containers when possible,
- CLEAN pesticide containers properly, and...
- RECYCLE containers when possible.
These practices, as well as DISPOSAL in an environmentally sound manner, also can reduce potential environmental liability and cleanup costs.
Pesticide Container Management Options
The following options should be considered when managing pesticide containers:
- REDUCE the quantity of waste containers by purchasing and managing inventory wisely. Dissolving, or soluble, containers may be available. If large quantities are needed, buying in bulk may reduce packaging waste. Care should be taken to buy only the quantity needed so there will not be excess material to dispose of. Materials should be managed on a first-in, first-out basis to ensure they are used before the expiration date. And materials should be stored in a manner that prevents damage.
- REUSE the containers only as allowed by the label. Some pesticide manufacturers market refillable containers. Pesticide users should check with their suppliers to learn whether refillable containers are available. Follow label directions for handling these containers.
- CLEAN containers as directed by the label. Usually this means triple rinsing or pressure rinsing containers. The contaminated rinsewater should then be added to the tank mix to ensure all of the chemical is used as it was intended.
Many of the pesticides used today are not only potentially toxic, but very expensive as well. Discarding a container that holds pesticide residue is like discarding money. By properly cleaning containers, adding the rinsewater to the tank mix, and using all of the material as intended, pesticide users can get the benefit of all of the chemical they paid for -- and help to prevent pollution of the environment.
- RECYCLE containers in an environmentally sound manner if allowed by the pesticide label. Clean plastic jugs can be made into new plastic jugs or other items. Clean metal drums can be recycled or sold for scrap. Recycling these materials saves space in landfills and conserves natural resources. Pesticide suppliers may be able to provide information on container recycling.
- DISPOSE of containers (if they cannot be reused or recycled) in an environmentally sound manner in compliance with the law. Empty pesticide containers that have been properly cleaned are classified as solid waste in Missouri and can legally be placed in a sanitary landfill. The Missouri Solid Waste Management Law and rules prohibit dumping pesticide containers, except in a sanitary landfill permitted by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Pesticide containers that are not empty cannot be accepted at a sanitary landfill. Some waste pesticides are classified as hazardous waste and must be managed according to the Missouri Hazardous Waste Management Law and rules. Even those that are not classified as hazardous waste will require special handling. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources can provide information on managing waste pesticides.
Burning pesticide containers is not an acceptable disposal method. The Missouri Air Conservation Law and rules prohibit burning trade wastes such as pesticide containers unless it is in a permitted solid waste incinerator.
Pesticides are an important tool in many of today's businesses and homes. All pesticide users, whether they are farmers, professional applicators, or homeowners, need to take appropriate steps to protect themselves, other individuals, and the environment. Proper management of pesticide containers is an essential part of that protection.
For more information on proper management of pesticide containers, or on other pollution prevention activities, contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at the following address:
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Pollution Prevention Unit
P.O. Box 176
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Or call
(800) 361-4827
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources does not discriminate against anyone on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability. If anyone believes they have been subjected to discrimination for any of these reasons, they may file a complaint with either the Department of natural Resources or the appropriate federal agency.
This publication was funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Rev. 3/95
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Last Updated: February 21, 1996