North Raleigh Today

Items such as pumpkins, batteries, and grease can cause environmental issues if not disposed of properly. Guidelines are available to ensure these items are handled safely.

Pumpkins contribute significantly to landfill waste, with 1.3 billion pounds ending up there annually. This decomposition releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. To reduce this impact, several options are available: roast pumpkin seeds for snacks, use pumpkins as biodegradable pots, or add them to home compost after removing non-biodegradable materials like candle wax or glitter. For those without compost facilities at home, Wake County Convenience Centers offer drop-off sites for undecorated pumpkins. Alternatively, the Pumpkins for Pigs initiative connects farmers who accept pumpkins as livestock treats. The Toward Zero Waste event at Midtown Farmers Market on November 2nd is another opportunity to compost pumpkins.

Batteries pose health risks when discarded improperly due to hazardous chemicals they contain. Over 3 billion batteries are thrown away in the U.S. each year, potentially contaminating groundwater and causing fires in waste facilities. Batteries also contain valuable minerals that can be recovered through proper disposal methods found via the Waste Wizard tool.

Grease disposal is another concern; fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can lead to sewer blockages known as "fatbergs." To prevent this, avoid pouring FOG down drains and instead wipe small amounts with paper towels before discarding them in the trash. Larger quantities can be taken to Wake County Recycling Facilities or picked up by Solid Waste Services for conversion into biofuel.

For additional tips on seasonal waste disposal and reduction, individuals can subscribe to Talking Trash, a monthly newsletter from Solid Waste Services.