Recycling:

Items with sufficient BTU value, such as used oil and gasoline, are sent to secondary fuel or fuel blending facilities. Items such as batteries are sent to a recycling facility where the metal components are removed and recycled.

Incineration:

Some items are sent to specially constructed incinerators with state-of-the-art air pollution control equipment.

Landfill:

If items can't be recycled or incinerated, they are sent to landfills specially constructed to receive hazardous waste.

Reuse:

Computers dropped off at the facility will have their hard drives wiped clean before they are either reused or broken apart and each material is recycled or properly disposed of. The Illinois Department of Corrections, the City of Chicago and PC Rebuilders and Recyclers created an 11-week program to train ex-offenders in electronics recycling at the HCCRF. Participants also receive internships and job placement assistance in this growth industry. Recycled computers and other products are then made available to local schools, churches, non-profit groups and low-income families.

Reuse:

Useable paints, stains and other cleaners are available for free at the facility’s material exchange room. Please ask a staff person to enter the exchange room, which is open during regular hours of operation. Chicagoans are welcome to take materials without dropping off any of their own.