Thursday, November 06, 2014

Hazardous waste disposal opportunity for Limerick farmers

Limerick City and County Council is encouraging farmers across Limerick to avail of an upcoming opportunity to dispose of their hazardous wastes.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has teamed up with Teagasc, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Local Authorities, WEEE Ireland, European Recycling Platform (ERP) and RILTA Environmental Ltd. to operate ten bring centres for the collection of farm hazardous waste across the country, one of which will take place in Abbeyfeale during November.

Waste items ranging from out-of-date pesticides to waste electronic and electrical equipment (WEEE) and from Waste engine oil to contaminated waste packaging can be deposited at Abbeyfeale Mart on Tuesday, 25 November from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm.

"This Pilot Scheme provides farmers with an excellent opportunity to dispose of their hazardous wastes in a manner that protects human health, livestock and the environment," explained Christy O Connor, Senior Executive Officer, Limerick City & County Council.

He added: "There are strict controls on the movement, recovery and disposal of hazardous farm waste. This scheme allows for the appropriate disposals of such waste. Participating farmers will be issued with a receipt of payment and a certificate of transfer of control of waste."

Farmers are being reminded that each waste type brought to Abbeyfeale Mart later this month must be clearly identifiable, segregated and packaged to avoid leaks and minimise risks. Farmers should also note that mixed wastes and containers will not be accepted nor will farm plastics such as silage wrap, fertiliser and feed bags; netting; and triple rinsed pesticide containers. Meanwhile, all needles and syringes should be delivered to the centres in separate sealed containers.

Waste engine oil and waste hydraulic oil (do not mix with vegetable oil); Waste electronic and electrical equipment (WEEE) (e.g., TVs, computers, fridges, freezers, power tools, kettles); all batteries and light bulbs will all be accepted free of charge.

Out of date pesticides and biocides; veterinary medicines and animal healthcare wastes; needles and syringes; waste paints; aerosols; corrosives (acids; detergents); oil and air filters; oily wastes; brake fluids; brake pads; antifreeze; adhesives and coolants will be accepted at a cost of €2/kg plus VAT of 13.5%.

Waste packaging such as, plastic and/or metal containers that are contaminated with hazardous materials will be accepted at €8 per 200l drum or €4 per 20/25 l drum.

For further information on the farm hazardous waste bring centres visit www.epa.ie or Locall: 1890 33 55 99.