Aerosol Cans

Aerosol cans
  Can this item be recycled?

Yes, aerosol cans can be recycled if they are completely empty (at atmospheric pressure). Recycle them in "Cans & Bottles" containers with maroon lids.

  Materials preparation

Empty Aerosol Cans: Ensure the can is completely empty at atmospheric pressure. Place it in the designated "Cans & Bottles" recycling container with maroon lids.

Non-Empty Aerosol Cans: Submit for waste collection by the Chemical Waste Program. When packaging, ensure the cans stand upright in the box and are capped to prevent the release of contents. If known, list the ingredients on the waste form with the respective percent composition. For commercial products, provide the company name, location, and any hazard information listed on the can.

  Can this item be sent to ReUse?

Aerosols with leftover content can be sent to the UMN ReUse Program. Label the item for ReUse and drop it off at a ReUse pick-up location. Find your nearest drop-off location here. 

 Should this item be managed as hazardous waste?

If the aerosol can is not completely empty but must be disposed of, it must be handled by Health, Safety, and Risk Management to prevent environmental contamination and ensure safe disposal.

 Contacts

Recycling Program: 
Email: recycle@umn.edu
Phone: 612-625-8084

Reuse Program:
Email: reuse@umn.edu
Phone: 612-626-9152

Health Safety and Risk Managment
Email: hazwaste@umn.edu
Phone: 612-626-1604

  Rethink & reduce tips

Switch to pump sprays instead of aerosol cans for products like cleaners and hair sprays and ensure empty aerosol cans are recycled according to local guidelines. Opt for non-aerosol alternatives such as roll-on deodorants and liquid cleaners, and purchase products in bulk to reduce the number of aerosol cans used. Fully utilize all product in an aerosol can before disposal to minimize waste and get the most value out of your purchase.

Recycling and Waste Disposal Directory

Recycling Services

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Recycling Services

Scheduling a departmental cleanout

For office or building clean-outs, the Recycling Program will supply large recycling containers on wheels (hampers) for your department purge. Place all reusable and recyclable materials in the hamper. For service requests, use FM Call Center 612-624-2900.

Recycling confidential materials

If you have confidential material that you would like picked up for recycling, you may submit a request form at z.umn.edu/confidential. Call 612-625-6481 for assistance. We provide locked confidential containers and offer direct pickup from your office, however we are not HIPAA compliant. If you need a higher level of security, there are companies in the metropolitan area that can provide the confidential destruction and recycling of documents for a fee. For service requests, use FM Call Center 612-624-2900.

Reporting overflowing recycling / trash containers

Call the Facilities Management Call Center at 612-624-2900 to report an overflow.

What should go to the ReUse Center?

The University ReUse Program has surplus office furniture, supplies, and equipment available to University departments or individuals for purchase. The Reuse Program is located at 883 29th Avenue, S.E., Minneapolis.