Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

What is the appropriate action for disposing of empty metal, glass, or plastic pesticide containers?

1. Throw them away without recycling

2. Burn them to reduce waste

3. Try to return them for recycling

4. Use them for other chemicals

The correct answer is: Try to return them for recycling

The appropriate action for disposing of empty metal, glass, or plastic pesticide containers is to try to return them for recycling. Recycling helps prevent pollution, reduces the amount of waste going to landfills, and conserves natural resources. Many regions have established guidelines for the recycling of pesticide containers, especially if they have been properly rinsed. When containers are returned for recycling, it's important that they are free of any residues to avoid contamination of recyclable materials. Many local programs allow for the effective recycling of these types of containers, thus providing an eco-friendly alternative to disposal. Other disposal methods, such as throwing them away without recycling, burning them, or using them for other chemicals, can lead to environmental harm. Throwing them away contributes to landfill waste, burning can create toxic fumes, and repurposing them for other chemicals poses significant safety risks. Thus, recycling provides a beneficial solution that aligns with responsible environmental practices.