What is Hazardous Waste?
Hazardous Waste is waste that poses substantial or potential threats to public health or the environment.
It is essential that householders dispose of hazardous wastes safely and responsibly.
Hazardous Waste Includes:
Varnishes, Adhesives, Glues, Inks, Sealants, Waste Oils (engine, gear and lubricating), Batteries (Lead, Ni-Cd, Mercury Dry Cells), Cleaning Agents, Disinfectants, Bleaches, Caustic Soda, Waste Medicines, Antifreeze, Paints (Solvent-Based), Paint Stripper/Thinner, Herbicides, Pesticides, Weed Killer, Insecticides, Poisons, Fungicides, Aerosols, Electrolyte from batteries and accumulators, Fluorescent Tubes
These products all contain substances that are poisonous, corrosive or flammable.
Disposal of Hazardous Waste
DO NOT put items that are potentially hazardous in the your refuse bins as they are toxic and pose a considerable health and environmental hazard.
- Batteries: You are entitled to leave batteries back free of charge to retail outlets selling equivalent batteries. Batteries can be deposited even if you are not purchasing new batteries. Battery collection points are also provided in many public buildings throughout the city, including the recycling centre in the Liosbán Industrial Estate
- Waste Medicines: Some pharmacies will accept (although they are not obliged to) unused medicines for disposal. Do not put old medicines in your refuse bins and do not flush them down the toilet - both methods of disposal can have serious environmental implications.
- Fluorescent tubes and cooking oil are accepted at Galway City Council Recycling Centre. Mon-Thu 2-4, Fri 2-3, Sat 8.15am to 12.30pm.
- For other hazardous waste, Galway City Council runs a Hazardous Waste Disposal Event from time to time. Watch the website and our social media platforms where details for the next scheduled event will be posted.