How to Properly Dispose of Cooking Oil: Households and Businesses

Ethan Robinson 19/02/2024 Waste Management
how to dispose of cooking oil

Disposing of cooking oil may not seem like a big deal, but doing so safely and responsibly is crucial for both our environment and our plumbing. In Australia, whether you’re a home cook or a restaurant owner, understanding how to dispose of cooking oil the right way can help prevent blockages in our sewer systems, protect wildlife, and contribute to a cleaner planet.

Why Proper Disposal is Important

When cooking oil is improperly discarded—such as pouring it down the sink or toilet—it can solidify and form clogs in drainpipes. These blockages can cause significant damage to plumbing systems, leading to expensive repairs.

Additionally, cooking oil can contaminate waterways, harming aquatic ecosystems and wildlife. By following proper disposal methods, you can help prevent these issues and promote a healthier environment.

Cooking Oil Disposal at Home

cooking oil disposal

If you’re a household generating small amounts of used cooking oil, here’s how to dispose of it responsibly:

Cool and Collect

Start by letting the used cooking oil cool down completely. Once it’s cooled, pour it into a sturdy container with a secure lid.

It’s best to use a non-breakable and leak-proof container to avoid spills and mishaps.

Dispose of the Rubbish Bin

Once your container is full, simply throw it in the rubbish bin. Never pour oil directly into the bin without a sealed container, as it can create a mess and make the rubbish more difficult to manage.

Consider Reusing

If your cooking oil is still in good condition—meaning it hasn’t been used for frying strong-flavoured foods like fish or meat—you might consider filtering it and storing it for future use. Keep reusable oil in a sealed container in the fridge to maintain its freshness.

Cooking Oil Disposal for Businesses

For businesses that deal with larger quantities of cooking oil, here are two key disposal options:

  1. Specialised Collection Services
    Look for companies that specialise in the collection and disposal of cooking oil. Services like AUSCOL or Waste Away can help properly dispose of your oil while ensuring it’s recycled if possible.
  2. Recycling Opportunities
    Explore local recycling centres that accept used cooking oil. Many facilities can convert it into biofuels and other sustainable products, which not only benefits the environment but also enhances your business’s commitment to sustainability.

Guidelines for Western Australia

cooking oil collection

In Western Australia, follow these specific guidelines for disposing of used cooking oil:

  • Choose the Right Container: Collect cooking oil in a suitable container, such as a box or carton, making sure it’s properly sealed to avoid any spills.
  • Avoid Pouring Down the Drain: Never dispose of cooking oil down the sink, as this can result in clogs and damage to the sewage system.
  • Composting Option: If you have only a small amount of cooking oil, it can be safely added to your compost as long as you mix it well with other compost materials.
  • Use Drop-off Centres: For household quantities of up to 20 litres, take advantage of free disposal services at drop-off centres like the West Metro Recycling Centre (WMRC).
  • Contact Local Authorities: If your business generates a significant amount of oil, reach out to your local council or waste management company. They may provide specific collection services tailored to your needs.

Separate Animal Fats

When disposing of animal fats, be sure to keep them separate from plant-based oils. Allow animal fats to solidify before placing them in a red-lidded general waste bin.

Make Responsible Choices

Properly disposing of cooking oil may seem like a small task, but it can have a significant positive impact on our environment and infrastructure. By following these guidelines—whether you’re cooking at home or running a business—you can help protect our waterways, prevent sewage blockages, and promote sustainable practices.

So next time you’re done frying up a meal, remember to dispose of your cooking oil responsibly. A little effort on our part can lead to a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

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  • Ethan Robinson

    Ethan is a content editor with a background in environmental journalism. He’s an enthusiastic home cook and collector of vintage records.

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