Promotional Strategies for the Prevention and Proper-Disposal of Household Hazardous Wastes

Successful household hazardous waste collection programs require extensive planning and coordination of activities among all parties involved. Of importance are the knowledge and perception of the hazard potential of the products generated by residents, the types of collection programs preferred by the residents, the location and accessibility of the collection sites, and the demographic and attitudinal characteristics of the residents. Results are presented from a survey conducted in Broome County, NY, which examined the relative importance of these factors in planning for a permanent household hazardous waste facility. The survey considered the generation and storage of household hazardous wastes, the perception of the hazard level of waste materials, current and preferred disposal options, and public support for a permanent collection facility. The data indicated that participation rates were not cost-regulated, but only about two out of every five residents were willing to pay for the disposal of these products. Residents apparently continued to buy and store household hazardous waste materials regardless of the perceived risk. The residents were willing to drive up to 10 mi to deposit their materials at the facility.