A recent survey by California's Department of Resources Recycling and
Recovery (CalRecycle) revealed a serious gap in awareness among drivers who
change their own motor oil. While 95 percent of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) oil
changers said they recycle their used motor oil, approximately one-third
admitted to dumping their used oil filters in the trash, potentially
contaminating the environment with hazardous waste.
DIYers who indicated they threw away their used oil filters acknowledged they
were not aware filters could be recycled, revealing a critical opportunity to
improve oil filter recycling practices across the Golden State.
New efforts to build stronger awareness of the importance of recycling oil
filters are rolling out statewide. CalRecycle is using public service
announcements, filter exchange events, and other grassroots initiatives to
educate the public about the importance of recycling used motor oil and filters
together.
"California's home mechanics are recycling their motor oil, but we need to
make sure they finish the job correctly and take in their filters, too,"
CalRecycle Director Caroll Mortensen said. "We are asking news professionals,
local businesses, and our local government partners to help us spread the word.
Together, we can make big strides to increase oil filter recycling and keep
toxic materials out of the environment."
Each year Californians generate nearly 70 million used automotive filters,
which are completely recyclable. After filters are drained, each one still holds
about 10 ounces of toxic oil residue and is therefore considered hazardous waste
that cannot be thrown in the trash. This trapped motor oil could add up to 2
million gallons of toxic waste going into California's environment, water
systems, or landfills each year if not properly recycled. According to
CalRecycle, recycling these filters, which contain about a pound of steel, could
produce enough metal to build three large sports stadiums.
Californians can find a list of local Certified Collection Centers on the CalRecycle
website. Additional tips and information can be located on the CalRecycle Facebook page
and Twitter.
CalRecycle is the state's leading authority on recycling, waste reduction,
and product reuse. CalRecycle plays an important role in the stewardship of
California's vast resources and promotes innovation in technology to encourage
economic and environmental sustainability. For more information, visit www.calrecycle.ca.gov.
Media Contact: Sarah Stanley
310.461.0383 | sarah.stanley@mslgroup.com
Source: PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1e4j9)