How to properly dispose of hazardous waste (batteries, paint)?

Hazardous waste management is a critically important aspect of environmental responsibility for every Calgary resident. Hazardous waste includes materials that can harm human health or the environment, such as batteries of all types, paint, solvents, oils, aerosols, lawn care chemicals, and household electronics. Improper disposal of these items can cause fires, chemical contamination of soil or water resources, and air pollution. Calgary has established an extensive network of locations and programs for the safe collection and recycling of hazardous waste, which everyone who cares about the environment and their health should be aware of.

Specialized household hazardous waste collection sites

The City of Calgary has organized a network of household hazardous waste (HHW) collection sites at six fire stations, which are open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can bring all used batteries, portable batteries, aerosol cans (deodorants, paints, household chemicals), lighters, light bulbs, as well as small propane and helium cylinders. Since these stations are under video surveillance, there is no need to call in advance — residents simply leave the used materials in specially marked containers at the entrance to the fire station.

Key locations:

  • Fire Station No. 15 (Bowness): 6328 35 Ave NW
  • Fire Station No. 24 (Cedarbrae): 2607 106 Ave SW
  • Fire Station No. 37 (Evergreen): 2511 Eversyde Ave SW
  • Fire Station No. 20 (Lincoln Park): 2800 Peacekeepers Way SW
  • Fire Station No. 31 (Country Hills): 11955 Country Village Link NE
  • Fire Station No. 4 (Vista Heights): 1991 18 Ave NE

The principle is very simple: you leave hazardous waste next to the containers, following the instructions for sorting by category, and the city organizes its further disposal or recycling.

Eco-centers at municipal landfills

For those who have larger volumes or a wider variety of hazardous materials (paint in cans, industrial oils, large propane cylinders), there are eco-centers at three municipal landfills: East Calgary Landfill and Eco Center, Spyhill Landfill and Eco Center, and Shepard Landfill and Eco Center. Each accepts over 50 categories of materials, including:

  • Construction chemicals (solvents, adhesives, sealants)
  • Automotive fluids (motor oils, antifreeze, brake fluid)
  • Paints, stains, and varnishes
  • Consumer electronics (laptops, televisions, mobile phones)
  • Energy-saving, LED, and daylight bulbs
  • Aerosol cans containing paint or insecticides

Eco-center hours:

  • East Calgary: Mon–Fri 6:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Sat–Sun 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Spyhill: Mon–Sat 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Shepard: Mon–Sat 7:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (household waste only, no commercial trailers)

The entrance is marked with “Eco Centre” road signs with clear instructions on where to unload specific materials. Use of the eco centers is free for Calgary residents and helps prevent damage to the environment.

Specialized collection points for electronics and scrap metal

When it comes to electronics (computers, phones, TVs) or scrap metal (copper, aluminum, steel), the city has partnered with non-profit organizations and private companies.

  • Electronic Recycling Association (ERA): accepts electronics free of charge at 1315 73 Ave SE and through “E-Waste” collection programs throughout the city. ERA guarantees the safe removal of personal data and the recycling of components.
  • Calgary Metal Recycling Inc.: two standardized sorting sites for ferrous and non-ferrous metals (2828 Bonnybrook Road SE and 3415 Ogden Road SE), where residents can receive payment for accepted metals.
  • 1-800-GOT-JUNK?: commercial collection service for hazardous household electronics and scrap metal with immediate “here and now” pickup by appointment.

Principles of safe packaging and transportation

Before bringing hazardous waste to any collection point, it must be packaged according to the instructions:

  • Batteries and accumulators — in plastic bags or containers so that they do not come into contact with each other and cause a short circuit.
  • Paint and solvents — in original containers with tight-fitting lids and labels with instructions. If the container is damaged, transfer the contents to clean, chemical-resistant containers with appropriate labels.
  • Aerosol cans — store upright in a box with clear information about the contents.

New plastic containers are acceptable for transport, but old garbage bags are not allowed, as hazardous chemicals can damage the packaging and contaminate the vehicle.

Schedule and availability of programs

The network of collection points covers both weekdays and weekends, with most locations open daily, differing only in their opening and closing times. Fire stations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week. Eco-centers are open from morning to evening on weekdays and partially on Saturdays, and most public and private locations are open by appointment; many offer online booking or phone calls.

Residents can also use the Calgary Garbage Day app, which not only reminds them of the day their bins are collected but also has a “Hazardous Waste” section with information on the nearest collection points and opening hours.

Educational initiatives and support

The city regularly runs educational campaigns under the slogan “Don’t throw it away — recycle it.” Fire stations distribute flyers with instructions among other vital safety tips, and eco-centers hold open house days where residents can learn about the process of sewerage and hazardous material recycling.

In addition, schools and universities hold workshops on eco-activism, and local media regularly feature stories about how proper disposal has prevented accidents, chemical pollution, and large-scale fires.

Conclusion

Proper disposal of hazardous waste in Calgary is not only the responsibility of every citizen, but also an opportunity to protect their health and preserve the environment. An extensive network of fire stations, eco-centers, specialized drop-off points for electronics and scrap metal, and private partners makes it safe and convenient to dispose of all types of hazardous materials. Following basic packaging and transportation rules, as well as actively participating in educational programs and gathering information through official websites or apps, ensures that hazardous waste does not harm Calgary residents or ecosystems. Everyone can contribute to a clean and safe city by disposing of their batteries, paints, and other hazardous waste at the appropriate collection points.