Solvents, resins, pigments and additives are nothing to be tampered with. Allowing old paints to sit around can cause a buildup of flammable, toxic fumes and create environmental hazards. Improper disposal of old paint can potentially affect ground water safety, damage natural environments or create safety problems. Disposing of old paints incorrectly can violate local environmental regulations and cause environmental damage. The good news is, you can safely dispose of old paint no matter where you live.
Instructions
1. Avoid pouring paints down the drain or flushing them down the toilet. Whether you have a septic tank, or city sewage, this can damage the beneficial microbes that keep the system functioning correctly and prolong filtration times.
2. Refrain from throwing it in the garbage. Compacted trash is often picked through by sanitation workers, for recycling, in an effort to reduce the amount of things that go into a landfill. Spilled paint can make previously recyclable items useless.
3. Donate the paint if it's still usable. Community mural projects often ask for paint donations. Habitat for Humanity sometimes accepts paint donations, and can often link you with other organizations who are looking for paint.
4. Open the lid of old latex or acrylic paint and allow it to dry out and solidify by adding kitty litter. Check your state regulations regarding the disposal of old latex or acrylic paints. In some municipalities, residents are asked not to do this themselves, and to bring old paints into a proper recycling facility or hazardous waste facility.
5. Donate oil paint to the police department or parks department. It's commonly used for covering up graffiti. Since it's not likely to solidify or dry out, check with your public works department or solid waste division to see what the local regulations are concerning the disposal of old oil paints.
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