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Antifreeze now recycled

Antifreeze can now be recycled for free at various locations across the South Okanagan.

Antifreeze can now be recycled for free at various locations across the regional district.

Used antifreeze is a concern for the environment since it may contain copper, zinc and lead from automobile engines, and can pose several risks to the environment, animals and humans, when leaked, spilled or improperly disposed of.

“It is estimated that about 11 to 12 million litres of automotive antifreeze will be sold in B.C. this year. About 45 per cent of the antifreeze sold will be available for collection and recycling while the other 55 per cent is lost through use,” said Dave Russell with the B.C. Used Oil Management Association, a non-profit organization  responsible for the provincewide collection and recycling of used oil, oil containers and oil filters. “We are optimistic that close to three million litres of used antifreeze will be collected in our first full year of operation.”

Residents can currently bring used oil, antifreeze, oil filters and applicable containers for free drop off and recycling at the following locations:

Penticton: Canadian Tire, Great Canadian Oil Change, Larsen Brothers, Lube-X; Osoyoos: OK Truck; Oliver: Oliver Brake and Muffler; Okanagan Falls: G&R Auto; Keremeos: Dan’s Automotive

The Campbell Mountain Landfill in Penticton, the Summerland Landfill and Princeton Landfill can also accept antifreeze, oil, oil filters and containers free of charge. Check with www.usedoilrecycling.com for new locations as they become available.