Used Motor Oil: A Problem with a Solution

Project R.O.S.E. (Recycled Oil Saves Energy) has served as Alabama's statewide used motor oil collection and recycling program since 1977. Program goals include conserving energy, preserving a valuable natural resource, and protecting the environment. To accomplish its purpose, Project R.O.S.E. educates the public about recycling used motor oil, helps establish used oil recycling programs, and offers used oil collection and recycling assistance. Project R.O.S.E. is funded by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, Science, Technology and Energy Division and sponsored by The University of Alabama.

Used motor oil is usually not recognized as a recyclable material and generally is not viewed as a significant problem. But let's look at the facts. There are 4.4 million vehicles registered in Alabama. If each vehicle contains 5 quarts of oil and is changed three times a year, what happens to all that used oil? About 60% is recycled; the remaining 40% is improperly disposed of through dumping onto the ground or being poured into our rivers and lakes.

Used motor oil can contaminate our soil and water, and make humans and wildlife sick. Crude oil straight out of the ground is processed into numerous products like gasoline, lubricating oils and asphalt. To make some of these products, an "additive package" is mixed with the crude oil for better performance. To manufacture lubricating oil for automobiles, some additives include detergents, corrosion inhibitors, and rust inhibitors. While an automobile is running, the motor oil collects dirt, heavy metal (lead, cadmiun, zinc, and barium), iron steel particles, and copper. Several of these contaminants are toxic and harmful to the environment. It is important that we learn the proper and safe methods of disposal for used motor oil.

Be a part of Alabama's Solution, RECYCLE