By Kathy Chouteau
Got a mattress, hazardous materials or the like hanging around the house? RecycleMore has just the remedy: It’s hosting a free “Household Hazardous Waste and Mattress Collection Event” Sat., Aug. 28 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hilltop Church of Christ, 3301 Morningside Dr. in El Sobrante.
The event, which requires a proof of residency, is open to residents of: El Cerrito, Richmond, San Pablo, Pinole, Hercules and the surrounding unincorporated communities of Bayview, East Richmond Heights, El Sobrante, Montalvin Manor, North Richmond, Rollingwood and Tara Hills, per organizers.
According to RecycleMore, these items will be accepted at the event: Electronic waste with circuit boards (i.e., microwaves, computers, TVs, and cell phones); auto products (antifreeze, gasoline, batteries, used motor oil and filters); propane gas cylinders, hazardous aerosols/cleaners/sprays and poisons; paints, solvents, thinners and adhesives; household batteries, fluorescent lights, mercury thermometers and switches; garden products (pesticides and fertilizers); pool and photo chemicals; and mattresses and box springs (maximum of 3 items; no excessively wet or damaged mattresses and no furniture).
Community members should keep in mind that state regulations limit the transportation of household hazardous waste to 15 gallons or 125 lbs. per vehicle for each visit. Individual containers are limited to a five gallon capacity, said organizers.
A number of items are prohibited at the event and should not be brought to it. These items include garbage, furniture, business waste, trailers, explosives, ammunition, medical waste, pharmaceuticals, sharps, radioactive waste, appliances (i.e., stoves, refrigerators, washers/dryers, vacuums, toasters and coffee makers), TVs in consoles or TVs over 36″ (flatscreens are accepted), hazardous construction debris (i.e., asbestos, pressure treated wood waste, contaminated soil, etc.) and electric vehicle batteries.
In accordance with Contra Cost County health orders, “Face coverings and masks are required for all vehicle passengers at all times. All participants must remain in the vehicle at all times. All materials must be placed in the trunk or in the rear most portion of the vehicle,” said RecycleMore in a statement, adding that failure to follow these guidelines will result in refusal of service.
Anyone unable to make the event can visit RecycleMore’s permanent location at 101 Pittsburg Ave. in Richmond, which is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Questions? Call 888-412-9277.
RecycleMore is partnering with the City of Richmond, Contra Costa County, Republic Services and West County Resource Recovery for this event.
