Coolant disposal

Disposal of coolant must always be done carefully and in accordance with legal regulations for chemical waste. Chemical Waste Netherlands specializes in the responsible collection and processing of used coolant and antifreeze for businesses throughout the Netherlands. We ensure safe collection, transport, and processing of your coolant, fully compliant with applicable environmental legislation.

Collection of old coolant from companies

The collection of used coolant from businesses is common at garages, transport companies, workshops, and the automotive and motorcycle industry. Because coolant contains harmful substances, it is classified as hazardous waste. Therefore, it must never be disposed of with residual waste or in the sewer system. Always have your coolant professionally disposed of to prevent environmental damage and potential fines.

What exactly is coolant and what does it consist of?

Coolant is a fluid that protects engines, machinery, and equipment from overheating and freezing. This fluid is very similar in composition to antifreeze and contains the same main components. Coolant consists of a mixture of water, glycol (such as ethylene or propylene glycol), and special additives that prevent corrosion and deposits in the cooling system.

Over time, coolant loses its protective properties, making replacement necessary. Used coolant and antifreeze may contain heavy metals, oil and glycol compounds, and other toxic substances. Therefore, these fluids are classified as hazardous waste and must be disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations.

coolant drains

Used and old coolant collection

Dispose of used coolant in an environmentally friendly way

Disposing of used coolant requires care and knowledge of the applicable regulations. Chemical Waste Netherlands has all the required certifications and works exclusively with certified processors. This ensures environmentally conscious and safe processing of your coolant waste.

How should you store coolant before disposal?

Coolant should always be stored in a tightly sealed, chemical-resistant container with a clear label. Preferably, use a UN-approved jerrycan or drum. Place it on a drip tray to prevent spills. Our specialists are happy to advise you on the correct method. chemical waste container for the storage of coolant and antifreeze within your company.

How can you safely dispose of old coolant and antifreeze as a business?

For businesses, it's best to dispose of used coolant and antifreeze through a certified collection company. Chemisch Afval Nederland (Chemical Waste Netherlands) will collect the fluid from your location, provide specialized storage facilities, handle transport in accordance with ADR guidelines, and ensure environmentally friendly disposal. We offer both one-time collections and scheduled collections on demand.

Frequently asked questions about coolant and glycol disposal

What do you do with old coolant?

Have your used coolant collected by a certified collector. Chemical Waste Netherlands ensures safe transport and environmentally friendly processing of used coolant from businesses. As a private individual, you can bring it to the municipal waste disposal center or chemical waste collection point.

What should you do if oil gets into the coolant?

If oil gets into the coolant, have it disposed of immediately by a certified waste disposal facility. Oil contaminates the coolant and increases the environmental impact. Read more about this in the article. Oil in coolant.

How do you dispose of used coolant?

Used coolant can be disposed of through a certified chemical waste collector. Chemical Waste Netherlands offers a safe and certified solution for businesses. Individuals can take it to the recycling center and sometimes to garages.

Where can you return coolant?

Businesses can dispose of coolant using the Chemical Waste Collection Service of the Netherlands. Private individuals can dispose of coolant at their municipal recycling center.

How can you dispose of glycol?

You can dispose of glycol in the same way as coolant: via a certified collector of chemical and hazardous waste. Companies arrange drain glycol Easily disposed of via Chemical Waste Netherlands. As a private individual, you can drop it off at recycling centers.

Is coolant bad for the environment?

Yes, coolant and antifreeze are bad for the environment because they contain glycol compounds and metals that are harmful to soil and (ground)water.

Is coolant in the sewer allowed?

No, disposing of coolant down the drain is not permitted. The fluid contains highly harmful substances that can seriously pollute water and soil.

Can coolant be poured down the sink?

No, coolant should not be poured down the drain. It contains extremely harmful substances for your health and the environment. Always dispose of it as chemical waste through an authorized waste collector.

Why can't you just dump coolant?

You may not simply dispose of coolant, as it contains toxic substances such as glycol, nitrates, and heavy metals. These contaminate soil and surface water.

Is used coolant chemical waste?

Yes, used coolant is considered chemical waste. It must be collected by a certified recycling center, such as recycling centers, waste disposal centers, chemical recycling centers, and commercial collection agencies like Chemisch Afval Nederland (Chemical Waste Netherlands).

How do you dispose of old coolant?

You must dispose of used coolant through a certified waste collector/processor. Businesses can contact Chemical Waste Netherlands; individuals can take it to a waste disposal site or drop it off at the chemical recycling center.

What happens to coolant after collection?

After collection, the coolant is processed in specialized facilities. There, oil and metal residues are separated, and the mixture is purified through filtration and distillation.

The water and glycol are purified and reused where possible. Non-reusable waste is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. This minimizes the environmental impact.

Is coolant dangerous or poisonous?

Yes, coolant is dangerous and toxic to humans, animals, and the environment. The fluid often contains ethylene glycol, a substance that can be fatal if swallowed even in small doses. Contact with skin or vapors can also cause irritation.

When coolant leaks into the environment, it contaminates soil and surface water. Therefore, always have used coolant professionally disposed of by a certified collector, so it can be safely processed and recycled in accordance with environmental regulations.

What are the legal rules regarding coolant and chemical waste?

The legal regulations regarding coolant and chemical waste are laid down in the Environmental Management Act and the Activities Decree. Companies are required to comply with the chemical waste legislation and store and dispose of coolant via an approved processor.

Is your question not listed?

Please feel free to contact us. Our staff will be happy to answer all your questions. We are available Monday through Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM at 085 – 06 08 416 and info@chemischafvalnederland.nl.

Safe coolant waste collection

Have your used coolant collected responsibly by Chemical Waste Netherlands. We arrange the containers, collection, transport, and processing within ten business days. Request a free quote today and contribute to a cleaner environment.