How to Recycle Oil

The regular maintenance you perform on your automobile can be hazardous to the environment. Motor oil that is simply thrown out with your regular garbage will find its way into waterways and soil to injure flora and fauna. You can recycle oil with each oil change to protect the planet.

Things You'll Need

• Oil barrels
• Spray paint

Instructions

1. Examine used oil as it exits your vehicle to determine the proper approach to recycling. Recycling centers in most states can reject used oil if it contains debris and contamination.

2. Store used oil in heavy barrels to avoid causing environmental damage before you recycle. You should mark barrels as "simple" and "contaminated" oil with spray paint. This can help you to avoid hauling barrels to a recycling center only to have your oil refused.

3. Locate a proper place to keep your oil barrels until you are ready to take a trip to the recycling center. Commercial-storage spaces that can be rented monthly are better options than your garage or storage locker for long-term storage.

4. Research the process of refining used oil for commercial use to understand why it is important to recycle. There are laboratories that specialize in taking used oil and removing debris for use by commercial machinery throughout the world.

5. Explore recycling programs funded by state-tax dollars to deal with oil from your family's cars. Larger states, such as California, offer incentives for individuals who bring in large amounts of used oil as a way to prevent water and soil pollution.

6. Schedule time with a certified hauler of oil and other recycled items if your business is participating in a recycling program. You can speak with a sales representative from a local waste-management company to set up subsidized or inexpensive delivery of used oil to recycling centers.

7. Request information from your car dealership or oil change provider about the disposal of used oil. State and federal laws require proper disposal of oil for businesses that perform oil changes. You may be able to get your used oil from the service provider if you feel uncomfortable with the company's storage methods.

8. Determine a recycling center's policy toward oil filters as you recycle your collection of used oil. There are a growing number of businesses and states that encourage individuals to recycle oil filters in an effort to prevent residual amounts of oil from influencing the environment.