Do-it-yourself mechanics whose holiday chores will include changing oil in personal vehicles are being reminded about the proper disposal of the used engine lubricant.
"Used oil is insoluble, persistent and can contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals," said June Carpenter of the Mississippi Technical Assistance Program for Pollution Prevention at Mississippi State University.
Carpenter, a technology transfer specialist for the state-sponsored program, said a million gallons of fresh water can be ruined by the contents of a single oil change.
"That's the equivalent of a year's supply for 50 people," she added.
Saying that "recycling is the easiest and best way" to dispose of any used oil--including that from boats, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, and lawnmowers--she listed a three-step process to do so:
Put used oil in a clean plastic container that has a tight lid (empty milk jugs, water bottles or oil containers, for instance);
Never place used oil in containers that previously held pesticides, paint, gasoline, solvents, antifreeze, or other hazardous chemicals; and
Take it during normal business hours to a service station or other location that collects used oil for recycling. Remember to limit quantities to one to five gallons.
"One gallon of used oil that is re-refined will produce 2.4 quarts of lubricating oil," Carpenter said. "It takes 42 gallons of crude oil to produce the same amount."