Free Hazardous and E-Waste Collection Coming to Middletown

JOHNSTON, RI—Rhode Islanders will be able to safely and properly dispose of hazardous household waste at a series of Eco-Depot collections throughout the state in April.

Rhode Island Resource Recovery is recognizing Earth Month by hosting the free events, which are ideal for people looking to get rid of light bulbs, gasoline, pool chemicals, oil-based paint and used motor oil, among other chemicals.

In addition, electronic waste will be collected at an April 9 collection in Coventry and Styrofoam and electronic waste will be collected at an April 16 collection in Middletown.

“With spring cleaning in full swing and Earth Day just around the corner, there’s no better time to visit Eco-Depot,” said Joe Rotella, Special Waste Program Manager. “We are thrilled to bring safe and easy disposal of household hazardous waste to Rhode Island residents throughout the year and especially during Earth Month.”

Earth Month collection dates and locations include:

April 9: Coventry, Coventry Town Hall, 1670 Flat River Road, 8am-1pm

April 9: Johnston, RIRRC, 65 Shun Pike, 8am-12pm

April 16: Middletown, Second Beach, 8am-1pm

April 23: Foster, Dept. of Public Works, 181 Howard Hill Road, 8am-1pm

April 30: Cumberland, Cumberland Monastery, 1464 Diamond Hill Road, 8am-1pm

The Eco-Depot program has been around since 2001 and RIRRC said about 10.6 million pounds of household hazardous waste has been collected so far.

At the April 9 and 16 events, residents can bring computers and televisions only, so double check before you head out.

Many common household items are classified as hazardous waste but end up in the regular trash stream anyway. When not properly disposed, they can damage the local environment and inevitably end up in the water supply.

Demand is often strong for free Eco-Depot events, especially when people are thinking about spring cleaning. It's recommended you make an appointment in advance. Do it at www.ecodepotri.org.