PROPER USED OIL DISPOSAL DEQ’s campaign targets hotels, construction firms

The Division of Environmental Quality is targeting hotels, garment factories and construction firms, which are mostly using generators in their operation, in its information drive this year on proper disposal of used oil.

As a regulatory agency, DEQ’s concern is focused on ensuring sure that the various businesses are following the proper disposal of used oil since the CNMI lacks the recycling facility.

According to Ray Masga, DEQ environmental planner, the agency’s concern is now focused in teaching the employees in these establishments how to dispose of the used oil.

Mr. Masga said four seminars on used oil disposal were given to auto shop workers on the island which started in October 1999. “We will be doing an information campaign for two years before imposing the penalties,” he said.

Currently, DEQ has not taken any action against establishments that have not been able to dispose of their huge volume of used oil. Used oil disposal in municipal landfill is banned in the CNMI.

In the meantime, it has been carrying out educational campaigns to ensure that businesses do not simply throw their used oil anywhere and contaminate the environment.

A study conducted by Ross & Associates in 1993 estimates that businesses here generate an estimated volume of 213,000 to 214,000 gallons of used oil per year.

A survey conducted among distributors and wholesalers showed that some 397,200 gallons of virgin oil (motor oil, lubricating oil) are imported per year.

Used oil is defined as any oil from crude oil or synthetic oil which has been contaminated by physical or chemical impurities as a result of being utilized. Examples of used oil are motor oil, hydraulic fluid, and piston engine crankcase oils. Other types of used oil include lubricants, emulsions, and oil coolants.

DEQ has created a working group with the business sector on what to do to solve the problem that threatens the environment. Mr. Masga said there is a strong need to constantly educate the outlets of wholesalers and auto shops to make sure that used oil does not seep into the ground, Mr. Masga said.

Federal regulation allows for the recycling of used oil generated. Used oil that is not recycled may be disposed of in accordance with the Federal Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Regulations or the Hazardous Waste Regulations.

Storage of used oils must be in tanks, containers or units subject to regulation. When storing used oil, containers and tanks must be in good condition and show no signs of severe rusting, apparent structural defects, deterioration or visible leaks.