Humans generate a lot of waste, and it has to go somewhere. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) oversees waste management regulations. Its website provides a wide array of links and information, from household solid waste to composting to sludge to marine mammal disposal.
You can learn about and navigate many waste-related topics from the Maine DEP Waste Management landing page.
Where Can I Find Information About Proper Disposal?
Maine DEP, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, and other organizations offer information on their websites about household hazardous waste, universal and electronics waste, and proper recycling and disposal (see below). Keep in mind: recycling and environmentally friendly disposal options are subject to change, as well as price fluctuations. Information provided online may not be up-to-date. We encourage you to check the links provided here, do your research, call ahead, check with friends and family, or inquire at your town office to find the latest, most reliable information.
Household Hazardous Waste/Universal Waste Collection in Hancock County
Over the years, our office and other groups would organize single-day collection events in Ellsworth, open to all residents of Hancock County. Some towns would reimburse us for the cost of the waste dropped off by their residents. If towns could not pay for reimbursement, its residents could pay the per-unit costs out-of-pocket.
In recent years, hosting this event has become more difficult. Costs have climbed significantly, while the funds available to help pay for these events have diminished. We want a long-term solution for Hancock County, such as a permanent collection facility. In the meantime, we seek funding to hold similar events and develop long term solutions. We will update the community via our newsletter and website when funding is received. Please sign up for our newsletter to stay informed.
About Food Waste & Composting
This topic tends to get overlooked when we think about waste management. Did you know that food waste can turn landfills into major methane generators? (Methane is four times more powerful as a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.) Composting food waste “lowers greenhouse gases by improving carbon sequestration in the soil and by preventing methane emissions…” (see more at this U.S. EPA page). Also see:
Agricultural Plastic Waste
Farming generates a significant amount of plastic waste. Check these sites for information about recycling greenhouse plastic.