September 2nd, 2020
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello is encouraging residents to RecycleRight! and safely dispose of empty propane tanks used for grilling, firepits and camp stoves by bringing them to the Monroe County ecopark for proper recycling.
"As summer's camping and cookout season winds down, it's important to make sure we're disposing of our potentially hazardous propane tanks properly," said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. "Even though these tanks may seem empty, they still contain explosive vapors and can pose a danger to waste and recycling employees if they're thrown in the regular trash or in recycling bins. Let's keep the safety and well-being of our waste and recycling employees in mind and take our empty propane tanks to Monroe County ecopark, where they can be safely recycled."
Each year, hundreds of these tanks are disposed of improperly, exposing employees at the Monroe County Recycling Center and waste haulers throughout the region to risk of a potentially serious explosion.
"On behalf of the dedicated employees who handle curbside pickup and who work at our recycling center, please take your empty propane tanks to the County's ecopark – no appointment necessary – where they are safely disposed of," said Monroe County Department of Environmental Services Director Michael J. Garland.
Used, empty propane tanks – small (1#) or large (20#) – can be taken to the Monroe County ecopark for a free, non-appointment necessary drop off any time the facility is open – Wednesday from 1 p.m. until 6:30 p.m., and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., excluding the Labor Day holiday.
For more information, including a list of acceptable items or to make an appointment for a Hazardous Waste dropoff, visit www.monroecounty.gov/ecopark.
