Disposal of paint
One of the many activities that you can undertake to care for our environment is the safe and considerate disposal of paint, solvents and related products. The following checklist is provided courtesy of the Australian Paint Manufacturers´ Federation Inc to assist in the goal of protecting the environment.
Checklist for best ways to dispose of water and solvent-based paint products:
WHEN PURCHASING PAINT, remember to estimate the exact amount required for the job. Buy only what you need. Ask your retailer for assistance.
ALWAYS be sure to read the label which contains important information regarding the product.
THE BEST AND EASIEST WAY to dispose of left over paint is to use it all up. Apply a second coat or touch up as needed.
LEFTOVER PAINT can be given to someone else who has a need for the product. Make sure that any product you "donate" is in its original container and has is label intact.
WATER-BASED PAINTS can be left to dry by removing the lid and allowing the left-over paint to dry. This should be done in an area which is well away from children and animals. Allow the paint to dry completely. Most local councils will allow the container to be disposed of in the weekly household trash. However, it is advisable to check first. Remember to leave the lid off so that the refuse remover can see that the paint has hardened.
Properly sealed solvents and thinners have an almost unlimited shelf life. Keep and use.
SOLVENT-BASED PAINTS require special disposal practices. They are also ignitable and present other hazards. These products must never be poured down storm drains, the household sink (especially if you have a septic tank), or on the ground.
SOLVENT-BASED PAINTS (also referred to as alkyd or oil-based) should be disposed of as a household hazardous waste. Hold for a "Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day." If you’re local community does not undertake such programs, contact either your local or state government Environmental Protection Agency, for disposal guidance.
PAINT THINNERS, turpentine, mineral spirits and solvents should never be poured down a drain or the storm sewer. With the following simple steps, you can reuse these types of products. Let used turpentine or brush cleaners sit in a closed container until the paint particles settle out. Then pour off the clear liquid which can be reused. Add an absorbent (e.g. cat litter) to the remaining residue until it becomes completely dry.
Finally, contact your household refuse collection centre, local council or state government EPA for guidance on disposal.
* Information supplied by Dulux