How to Properly Dispose of Flammable and Combustible Containers

Corporation describes “do’s and don’ts” of preparing recyclable containers for collection

As camping and backyard BBQ season gets into full swing, the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation (RIRRC) is highlighting the importance of following the program’s “do’s and don’ts” for flammable and combustible containers. By following these rules, residents ensure the safety of Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) workers and provide a higher-quality product when finished recyclables go to market.  

“One of the greatest challenges we have as the summer months approach is the prevalence of improperly recycled flammable and combustible containers reaching our MRF,” said Sarah Kite, Director of Recycling Services for RIRRC. “From small propane tanks to lighter fluid bottles, these items, when improperly recycled, present a risk to our staff in the form of explosions and fires. Informing Rhode Islanders of the proper recycling and waste disposal methods of these materials will help reduce these types of occurrences throughout the season.” 

When completely empty, it is safe to recycle items like spray bottles that held glass cleaner or aerosols cans that held hairspray, but the key word is “completely.” Thick liquids, like motor oil and antifreeze, will always leave behind residue in a container and should never be placed in recycling bins, nor should any aerosol can that makes noise when the nozzle is pressed down.  Propane tanks, even with their top valve removed, also should not be recycled in bins or carts.

Many items that are improperly recycled are actually household hazardous waste. For any combustible item that contains more than a trace amount of fluid or any amount of gas, RIRRC offers free, convenient household hazardous waste collection events, known as Eco-Depot events, to collect these materials. Any substance that is toxic, corrosive, reactive, flammable or combustible is considered hazardous, and is often labeled with terms like “caution,” “hazardous,” “flammable,” or “poison.” Anything that has skull and crossbones on the label must be considered toxic and should be handled with caution. For more information on Eco-Depot collections or to view the schedule of upcoming events, visit www.ecodepotri.org. 

While there are a number of hazardous containers that cannot be recycled, the new Recycle Together RI program has expanded the types of plastic containers that can be accepted. The rule of thumb: recycle any plastic container two gallons or smaller. Containers should be completely empty at a minimum, and rinsed when possible. Plastic tops should be placed back on plastic containers prior to recycling. Metal lids should be removed from glass jars and then both the jar and lid can be recycled in the bin. Preparing containers this way helps ensure a higher quality recyclable, providing a greater value to the cities and towns when recyclables are sold by RIRRC.

By following these general recycling guidelines, residents are helping to create a greener Rhode Island, while also extending the life of the state’s new, $16.9 million MRF.

To view the entire list of recycling “do’s and don’ts” or to learn more about the Recycle Together RI program, visit www.RecycleTogetherRI.org or view the PDF distributed with this release.

About Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation

Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation is the quasi-state environmental agency dedicated to providing the public with environmentally sound programs and facilities to manage waste. The agency helps fund and promote the state’s recycling program, and owns and operates the Materials Recycling Facility and Central Landfill in Johnston.