What is the Pesticide Container Recycling Program?
The Pesticide Container Recycling program is available to all licensed pesticide applicators. In order to participate in the program, applicators must ensure that all containers are free of all pesticide residue, inside and outside. Triple rinsing is required. All label booklets, plastic sleeves and caps should be removed and discarded. Only high density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic containers from EPA registered agricultural, structural, turf, forestry, and specialty pest control products, as well as containers from crop oils, surfactants, and fertilizers, will be accepted. You can find a list of eligible products at this link. If you have unwanted fertilizer and pesticides, you can learn how to dispose of unwanted fertilizer and pesticides, before you recycle your containers.
How Can I Benefit from Participating?
Pesticide Container Recycling benefits pesticide applicators in many ways:
- Rinsing all the pesticide into their spray tank, applicators get maximum product for their money
- Recycled containers reduce unsightly clutter and provide for needed landfill space
- Recycled containers do not contaminate the air or groundwater by being burned or buried
What Are the Guidelines for Recycling Used Pesticide Containers?
- Only HDPE plastic containers are acceptable in the Pesticide Container Recycling program, including: crop oil, adjuvant, surfactant, foaming and antifoaming agent jugs and bottles.
- Containers must be triple-rinsed and free of all pesticide residue, fully drained, and not cut up or crushed. Containers with pumps are not accepted.
- Label booklets, lids/caps, foil seals, dirt, gravel, etc. must be removed.
- Plastic pesticide drums are acceptable, but must be prepared as follows:
- 5 & 15 gallon drums - Cut in half lengthwise
- 30 & 55 gallon drums - Cut in quarters lengthwise (Cutting drums in this manner facilitates proper cleaning and inspection and reduces storage area.)
- Dry Containers must be placed inside pesticide-safe plastic bags provided by Union County Solid Waste Management.
- Applicators may recycle used containers at the Union County Solid Waste Management Facility at 2125 Austin Chaney Rd, Wingate, NC 28174. DO NOT leave containers at the site after hours.
