Universal Wastes

The universal waste recycling program enables the commercial, institutional and regulated hazardous waste-generating community to recycle common, or universal wastes which have hazardous characteristics. By recycling them with the MCMUA, the generator doesn't have to manifest and transport them as hazardous waste with a licensed hazardous waste disposal firm. This adds conveniences and can reduce costs. Materials accepted include the following:

• Fluorescent light bulbs and other Universal Waste bulbs. (must not have been broken)
• Dry-cell batteries - All batteries accepted after December 1, 2009 have to be prepared in accordance with USDOT regulations regarding proper transport of hazardous batteries This means all individual batteries must be individually placed in plastic bags or have both their terminals covered with tape prior to delivery to the MCMUA's Recycling Consolidation Center.
   
  With the 2010 USDOT change in regulations regarding the transportation of waste batteries, the MCMUA will no longer be able to accept mixed batteries from municipal collection points and depots for recycling. Municipalities and residents are now encouraged to manage their spent batteries according to the "Easy as 1-2-3" suggestions. The MCMUA's mixed battery recycling program terminated as of December 1, 2009.