Prevent Pollution and Save Time and Money with These Tips
Vermont Business Magazine As the new year begins, the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is offering a few tips on what not to flush down toilets and how to better dispose of that waste.
Vermonters should only flush human waste, toilet cleaning products, and toilet paper.
Anything else needs to be properly managed to prevent pollution. Knowing where and how to best dispose of trash, waste, or unwanted items can cut wastewater treatment costs, protect public health, and keep the environment clean.
"Even products advertised as “flushable” do not break down and can clog toilets, household plumbing, sewer pipes and pumps, and septic tanks,” said Heather Collins, DEC Wastewater Program Manager. “This can result in sewage backups and overflows that cause pollution and cost homeowners and the public extra money.”
Do not flush tissues, cotton swabs, floss, diapers, feminine hygiene products, coffee grounds, cat litter, wipes, excess household cleaners, cigarette butts, and medications.
Use these tips to dispose of waste the right way:
- Fats, oils, and grease: Bring to a drop-off facility, or use a curbside food scrap hauler that accepts fats, oils, and grease.
- Food waste and organics like coffee grounds: Compost at home, bring to a drop-off facility, or use a curbside food scrap hauler. Remember to also follow bear-friendly composting practices.
- Hazardous waste labeled toxic, hazardous, poisonous, reactive, corrosive, or flammable: Bring to a household hazardous waste collection event or facility.
- Solid waste like “flushable” wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene products, pet waste, and cigarette butts: Put in the trash.
- Needles and sharps: Learn how to safely dispose of needles and sharps.
- Drugs like medicine, vitamins, and pills: Learn how to safely store or dispose of prescriptions from the Department of Health.
To learn more, visit the DEC Wastewater Management Program.
The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for protecting Vermont's natural resources and safeguarding human health for the benefit of this and future generations. Visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the Department of Environmental Conservation on Facebook and Instagram.
“Flushable” wipes clog pipes and should be disposed of in the trash not the toilet. 
Items like paper towels and cleaning wipes do not break down once flushed and have been found intact after being recovered from sewer pipes. Photo credit: Responsible Flushing Alliance.
Source: Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Montpelier, Website.
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