PRESS RELEASE:
Nov. 15, 2024
For Immediate Release
Morris County Promotes Hazardous Waste Program for America Recycles Day Safe Disposal of Hazardous Waste Protects Health of Communities and Environment
In recognition of America Recycles Day, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners and the Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority (MCMUA) have released two new videos highlighting the county’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program. The long-standing program provides residents, small businesses and municipalities an environmentally responsible way to safely dispose of toxic, flammable, and corrosive materials.
The MCMUA holds four annual disposal events across the county and operates a permanent HHW facility at the Mount Olive Transfer Station located at 168 Gold Mine Road in Flanders, N.J. The facility accepts hazardous materials by appointment, which include universal waste such as fluorescent bulbs, rechargeable batteries, and electronic waste like televisions and computers.
Commissioner Tayfun Selen, liaison to the MCMUA, recently visited the Mount Olive facility to highlight the essential year-round service offered free to Morris County residents.
“Morris County is committed to protecting the environment and the health of our residents,” said Commissioner Selen, liaison to the MCMUA. “Thanks to this program and the active participation of our community, we prevent more than 150 tons of hazardous waste from entering landfills each year.”
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Improper disposal of hazardous waste can cause significant risks to children, pets, and homeowners, as well as damage home and municipal infrastructure. Pouring hazardous materials down the drain may damage septic systems, pollute groundwater, and contaminate surface water through municipal treatment systems. When mixed into the waste stream, hazardous waste can endanger trash disposal workers, damage refuse containers and vehicles, and contribute to groundwater contamination from landfills. Additionally, incinerating hazardous waste increases the toxicity of ash and air emissions, exacerbating environmental and health hazards.
“Our goal is to provide a safe and convenient way for residents and businesses to properly dispose of hazardous materials,” said Steve Adams, MCMUA Hazardous and Vegetative Waste Manager. “By managing hazardous waste responsibly, we protect the health of our communities and the environment. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this free service.”
How to Participate
The Mount Olive facility is open by appointment on Tuesday and Friday mornings from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and most Saturday mornings during the same hours.
The HHW program is open to Morris County residents. Businesses qualifying as very small quantity generators, as well as out-of-county residents, can apply for pre-approval to use the permanent facility at cost.
To view the hazardous waste schedule, learn what items are accepted, or make an appointment, visit mcmua.com/sw_hhw_events.asp.