Webinar Recap: Aerosol Recycling Solutions, Regulatory Updates

NOVEMBER 9, 2020

Webinar Recap: Aerosol Recycling Solutions, Regulatory Updates

We rely on aerosol cans for our productivity, comfort, security and convenience. However, when these products are ready to be discarded, they must be handled responsibly in compliance with state and federal law. They should also be disposed of in a way that reduces environmental impact.

We recently hosted a webinar titled “Aerosol Recycling Solutions & Regulatory Updates,” which was presented by Clean Earth’s very own Howard Ray, Business Development, and Wade Scheel, Director Governmental Affairs. The session gave an overview of today’s aerosol recycling landscape and also provided a regulatory update.

Recycling Landscape

As sustainability continues to be important, many companies are aiming to have zero landfilling and reduction of their carbon footprint. Aerosol recycling and reuse is key to achieving success for those initiatives. Companies may recycle or reuse:

• Consumer packaging, including shrink wrap, corrugated board and cardboard.
• Shipping pallets.
• Hard plastic caps and the can’s exterior body, which can be made of steel or aluminum.
• Interior contents, which can see reuse as a “reagent or cutter agent” or through thermal recovery.
• Aerosol propellant.

Both manufacturers and the customer can benefit from recycling and reuse. For the manufacturer, it puts components back into commerce, reduces environmental liabilities and protects the brand. For the customer, it removes long-term liabilities, reduces regulatory paperwork and supports a company’s sustainability plan and community relations goals.

Regulatory Update 

On the regulatory side, Clean Earth is tracking state-by-state adoption of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Universal Waste Aerosol Rule and providing monthly updates. The rule is less stringent than existing regulations, so all other states will need to adopt it into their regulations. It is currently effective in 14 states and Puerto Rico.

There are several important considerations for aerosols under the rule, including shipping protocols and regulation of chemistry and waste codes. However, there are many benefits to classifying aerosols as universal waste, such as:

• They are not counted toward hazardous waste generator status, potentially lowering generator class, associated fees and regulations.
• Simplified labeling and relaxed container standards.
• Longer accumulation periods and less reporting.

Under normal market conditions Clean Earth recycles 100% of the aerosol can, and is experienced in aerosol recycling via our advanced hazardous waste facility in Morgantown, West Virginia. Our technology, speed and safety measures are unmatched in the industry. Click here to learn more about our cost-effective, customized aerosol recycling solutions.