Did you know that used motor oil is the largest single source of oil pollution in our lakes, rivers and streams? Used motor oil can contain concentrations of toxic heavy metals such as zinc, lead, and cadmium that affect the environment, including wildlife, vegetation, surface water and drinking water supplies when not disposed of properly. Motor oil poured onto the ground or into storm drains, or tossed into trash cans (even in sealed containers) can contaminate and pollute everything around it. Here are five steps you can take to help prevent oil pollution in our water:
- Recycle used motor oil at the Sedgwick County Household Hazardous Waste Facility.
- Request re-refined motor oil when you get your oil changed.
- Make sure to check your car for leaking fluids that might run-off into storm drains.
- Recycle and re-use oil filters. One ton of drained oil filters produces 1,700 pounds of steel and recovers about 60 gallons of used oil.
- If you change your own oil, get a reusable used oil container.
When you recycle used oil, you are protecting the environment and conserving a valuable resource.
Click here to read about household stormwater pollution prevention.
