Disposing of Leftover Solvents & Gasoline

Protect our environment.  Handling, storing and disposing of leftover solvents and gasoline in a safe, responsible manner is of primary importance.

About the Consumer Products Stewardship Program. The Consumers Product Stewardship Program (CPSP) is a non-profit, industry-run collection program which provides safe, convenient disposal for leftover household paints, solvents, flammable liquids, pesticides and gasoline.

Beginning in December 1997 the CPSP has established a network of 35 depots throughout B.C. for the environmentally responsible collection of these products. An additional 65 depots across the province collects leftover paint only.

Program funding.  All 4 "eco-fees" collected on the sale of paint, solvents, flammable liquids and pesticides by retailers and brand owners are remitted to the CPSP to fund the collection program.

At the service station level, the eco-fee is subject to both G.S.T. and P.S.T. The eco-fee is not a government tax.

For information on specific eco-fee amounts, see your retailer.

There is no additional charge to consumers when dropping off items at CPSP collection depots.

The BUD rule.  When purchasing paint, solvents, flammable liquids, pesticides and gasoline, remember the BUD Rule:

• Buy - no more product than you need. Ask your retailer for help in assessing your needs.
• Use - up all the product you buy. Give leftovers to a friend, neighbour or community organization who can use them responsibly.
• Dispose - of any leftovers in a safe, responsible manner.

By following these suggestions, you will not only save money, but reduce the amount of residual waste generated.

If you cannot use or give away leftover products, bring them to the CPSP depot nearest you for environmentally responsible disposal.

Solvents and flammable liquids. Using and storing solvents and flammable liquids...

• carefully read and follow all instructions on the product label
• keep container tightly closed and upright at all times
• store in a cool, well-ventilated place, away from heat, open flames, other ignition sources or sunlight.
• store solvent in original, labelled containers
• do not reuse empty solvent containers for other product
• re-use paint thinners and turpentine by allowing to stand in a closed, labelled container until paint or dirt particles have settled to bottom of container. Pour off clear liquid and re-use.

Gasoline. When using gasoline…

• avoid inhaling vapours, or contact with skin
• use gas in well ventilated areas, away from heat, flame, electrical appliances and other ignition sources
• store gasoline in approved ULC or CSA containers only
• never overfill gasoline containers – always leave air space for expansion
• keep container tightly closed
• do not allow gasoline to become old or contaminated
• keep out of reach of children

Storing and transporting gasoline…

• Always transport gas in a properly sealed, approved ULC container

CPSP depots accept gasoline in approved ULC containers only.

For depot locations or more information on CPSP, please call (604) 878-8700 or 1-800-505-0139.

The British Columbia recycling hotline numbers are (604) 732-9253 or 1-800-667-4321.