There are several hazardous waste management units in mainland Portugal. For the disposal of large quantities, there are two integrated centres for the recovery, valorisation and disposal of hazardous waste (CIRVER), CIRVER ECODEAL and CIRVER SISAV, which have been licensed under Decree-Law No. 3/2004 of 3 January. It should be noted that there are occasional campaigns to collect small quantities of hazardous waste at some Ecocentros.

Hazardous waste is mainly produced in the industrial sector, but also in healthcare, agriculture, commerce, services and our homes. The following are considered hazardous waste: lusalite, paints, thinners, glues, chemicals, asbestos/fibre cement, and any materials that are flammable, corrosive or reactive.

If the cans still contain paint, you should first try to reuse them or, alternatively, find an institution where you can donate them - try to find a charitable organisation in your area.

If you live in the area covered by Resulima or Valorminho, you can deliver hazardous waste to designated collection points. For more information on delivering hazardous waste, contact the Recycling Hotline.

If these options are not available, you should find a licensed hazardous waste operator who can receive these materials. Occasionally, there are campaigns in Portugal that allow small quantities of this type of waste to be collected by urban waste operators. If the cans are empty or contain residual paint, close them tightly and you can deposit them in the yellow recycling bin, or alternatively deliver them to our recycling centres.