Category: Learning Center

What are PFAS? Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are human-made compounds that are typically manufactured for their non-stick, heat-resistant, water and oil resistant properties. Since the 1930’s, manufacturers have used PFAS to produce many household items, such as cookware, carpets, clothes, furniture fabrics, and food packaging. They degrade extremely slowly and remain persistent and widespread…

Did you know that so-called “flushable” wipes aren’t flushable at all? Learn what can and can’t be flushed.

Medications that are flushed down toilets or poured down drains pollute waterways, including the San Francisco Bay. The presence of pharmaceutical compounds in treated wastewater is a growing environmental concern. Wastewater treatment plants were not designed to remove these types of chemicals, as well as those found in other household hazardous waste, which passes through…

If you are a pet owner or someone who works with pets, you know how important it is to keep our furry friends free of fleas and ticks. However, you may not know that products used to treat fleas and ticks – such as spot-on treatments, collars, sprays, and foggers – expose your family and…

Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from cooking can cause serious problems if poured down the drain, including sewer blockages, overflows, and environmental damage.  Follow These Steps to Keep Your Drains Clear Where are fats, oils and grease found? These include animal and vegetable oils/fats that are used for cooking food. Some examples are cooking oil,…

Every drop of water we use at home and work drains into San Francisco Bay. Wastewater travels from kitchens and bathrooms to wastewater treatment plants before it’s discharged to the Bay. Treatment can remove many pollutants, but some complex chemicals may resist degradation and pass through to the Bay.  Stormwater from roads, sidewalks and gardens…

Residential pesticide use by homeowners and pest control services is the main source of pesticide pollution in San Francisco Bay. Pesticides wash into storm drains and creeks during rain or when you water your garden. They disrupt delicate ecosystems and are harmful to wildlife.  Find a Certified Less-Toxic Pest Control Professional For safer structural pest…

No matter if the label says “disposable” or “flushable,” never flush these items: These items do not break down in the sewer. Instead, they tangle and clump and the debris creates massive obstructions that can lead to sewer back-ups. The Truth About Flushable Wipes “We used to flush our wipes, but they clogged our toilet.…

Certain chemicals used for cleaning pools, spas, or fountains, especially those containing copper, can kill aquatic wildlife if improperly released into the environment.  The best way to prevent copper pollution is to avoid using chemicals that contain copper!  If you need to empty your pool, spa or fountain, test the water for copper. If copper…

A major source of pollution in our waterways is also preventable: it’s litter. Why is litter such a problem? When litter hits the ground it’s more than just an eyesore. Litter is easily washed into storm drains by rain. Stormwater goes directly to local creeks and the Bay without any filtration. Once there, it disrupts…

Motor vehicles are a major source of pollution to the Bay. Heavy metals like copper from brake pads, grease, oil and other automotive fluids can all make their way to the Bay. The good news is that it’s easier than you think to reduce your share of these pollutants. Properly Dispose of Fluids Take used…

Household Hazardous Waste  Many common household products are considered hazardous and must be disposed of with care. These products include chemicals used for cleaning, home improvement, car care, and others. These products can cause harm to the environment and human health if not disposed of properly. These products should never be poured down a drain,…