American households generate approximately 1.6 million tons of waste per year including paints, cleaners, pesticides and poisons. Improper disposal of these items damages the environment. Chemicals poured down the drain pollute drinking water and contaminate septic tanks or wastewater treatment systems. When put into the trash, some chemical waste can cause injury to sanitation workers.

The Department of Environmental Utilities has established various programs to assist citizens with proper disposal. A Household Chemical Collection Center is located at the Lake County Landfill, County Road 561, in Tavares. In addition to this center, other locations participate in recycling certain hazardous items. Mobile Unit collections at various locations provide a fast and convenient method of disposing household hazards. This service is for household chemical collection only and is free to residents of Lake County.

The Department offers programs for Lake County businesses. The Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator is for small businesses that produce no more than 220 pounds or 25 gallons of chemical waste per month. Qualified businesses are urged to participate in this program. This program is located at the Household Chemical Collection Center. Disposal fees are based on the bid price with the contracted vendor. This service is available every Wednesday and the first Saturday of each month. The businesses must pre-register to participate.

The Pollution Prevention Program also assists businesses with waste. This program gives businesses the opportunity to learn about proper disposal and waste reduction techniques. For more information, call (352) 343-3776, ext. 238.