We often throw things in the garbage without even thinking about it. It has become such a routine part of our daily lives that we do it unconsciously. On average, each person generates more than four pounds of trash every day. The cumulative impact of this waste is a topic worth exploring in the future.
I wanted to understand the prohibited items for disposal in the state of Iowa. Specifically, I am interested in knowing what items cannot be thrown away in a regular dumpster or garbage can. Surprisingly, there are a lot more items on this list than you might expect.
Electronics Remain the Big No-No:
Electronics, such as computer monitors, keyboards, televisions, smartphones, etc., are frequently disposed of improperly. In Iowa, businesses are only obligated to adhere to federal regulations regarding the recycling of electronics that contain hazardous waste, as reported by Recyclenation.
If you have unused electronics, it is important not to contribute to overflowing landfills. Instead, you can choose to take them to nearby Best Buy, Costco, or Staples stores. Furthermore, there are several recycling centers across Iowa that you can explore for this purpose.
Photo Credit: Bet_Noire
Old Tires and Old Meds:
According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), it is not permissible to dispose of tires by throwing them in the garbage, shredding them, burning them, or dumping them. So, what is the proper method for tire disposal?
If you have old tires that you no longer need, it’s best to reach out to your local autobody or tire shop. They may be able to take them off your hands and dispose of them properly. Even if they don’t have a use for the tires, they can ensure that they are handled in an environmentally-friendly manner.
Throwing old medication in the garbage is also considered illegal. When prescribed antibiotics, it is important to complete the entire prescription, even if your symptoms improve or disappear. Flushing the medication down the toilet may seem like a convenient solution, but it is not advisable as it can contaminate the local water supply.
In Iowa, there are more than 300 pharmacies that are willing to accept and properly dispose of your old medications.
Other Items You Cannot Legally Throw Away in Iowa:
According to the Solid Waste Agency, they have outlined a comprehensive list of items that are prohibited from being disposed of in landfills and convenience area containers. The purpose behind this prohibition is to safeguard public health and the environment, while also adhering to local, state, and federal regulations.
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- Regulated hazardous wastes, including flammable or toxic liquids (including paints), solids and fuels*
- Pressurized cylinders*
- Tires*
- Appliances*
- Cathode Ray Tubes (CRT) and all televisions & computer monitors*
- Fluorescent bulbs/lamps*
- Solar Panels
- TSCA-regulated PCB-containing wastes, including capacitors, ballasts and transformers*
- Lead acid automotive batteries*
- Unapproved special wastes
- Unapproved contaminated soil
- Unapproved, undeclared or improperly packaged non-friable, friable, or regulated asbestos containing material (RACM)
- Anything smoldering or on fire
- Corrugated cardboard*
- Yard waste*
- Free liquids
