Should I dispose of used water filters, such as Brita, through my citys hazardous waste collection program?
If they are the filters used in normal household use then no. They are a very basic mechanism that is no real threat (otherwise they wouldn’t be very safe to drink form afterwards!). Anything that is hazardous should clearly state the fact on the packaging, and give suitable instructions of proper disposal. EDIT: They are not designed to trap “nasties”, the harmful ingredients are removed from water well before it comes out of the tap. Filters are desinged to remove metal ions, like Calcium and Magnesium, from water to improve the taste. These are no threat. EDIT: Lead is only present in minute quantities, even as it builds up is is still too low to casue real harm. Secondly, lead is not that hazadous, and can be disposed of in normal waste. If the water is safe to drink then the filter can’t be that dangerous!
