Since 1999, Bay West has managed Ramsey County’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program, providing essential waste collection and disposal services while generating revenue. The program ensures that residents can safely dispose of toxic materials such as paints, pesticides, and cleaning chemicals preventing harmful substances from entering landfills and waterways. Each year, the program collects and properly disposes of over 55,000 pounds of pesticides, more than 100,000 pounds of oil-based paint, and nearly 101,000 pounds of flammable liquids, reducing environmental hazards.
The HHW Program also promotes sustainability by offering a product reuse program. Residents are given the opportunity to take home gently used items like paint and automotive fluids for free, further reducing waste. In 2024 alone, the program diverted over 319,000 pounds of latex paint for reuse or recycling.
Staffed entirely by in house labor with no subcontractors, the HHW team ensures consistent quality and expertise. While the primary focus is on safely managing household waste across the county, this program plays a larger role in Bay West’s continued commitment to the environment, which extends far beyond waste collection. The HHW Program was recognized as one of Bay West’s 2024 Projects of the Year.
Bay West staff sort and manage hazardous waste during a collection event, ensuring safe handling and proper recycling of materials like paint, solvents, and flammable liquids.
Under the leadership of Kelly Giglio and Hanna Gaertner, the HHW team has grown into one of the most adaptable and versatile groups at Bay West. The HHW team has continued to go above and beyond to support operations across the company, stepping into roles such as spill response and groundwater sampling as needed. This flexibility strengthens Bay West’s ability to respond to environmental challenges while fostering internal career development and a pipeline for talent.
With over 25 years of service, the HHW Program continues to be a cornerstone of Bay West’s operations, while creating opportunities for professional growth within the company. The HHW team’s dedication and adaptability have made a lasting impact not only by delivering reliable service to Ramsey County but also by shaping the future of Bay West as a whole.
A Bay West team member collects household hazardous materials at the Ramsey County facility, helping residents safely dispose of oil, cleaners, and other toxic products.
Beyond collection and disposal, the HHW Program plays a vital role in waste reduction. Each year, thousands of pounds of materials are safely recycled or repurposed, reducing the environmental footprint of hazardous waste. For 25 years, the program has kept over 73,000 pounds of batteries, 67,000 fluorescent bulbs, and more than 32,000 pounds of aerosols from entering landfills. Additionally, over 14,000 e-cigarettes have been safely disposed of, preventing hazardous waste contamination.
The program’s success in waste diversion and reuse reinforces Bay West’s commitment to environmental excellence and sustainable waste management. With over 22,000 participants this year, the HHW team continues to make a measurable difference protecting both public health and the environment.
