Conventional practice would have it that convenience goes with sustainability. Waste oil from kitchens-cooking oils where they were opened for use from kitchen stoves, or from cars used motor oil-is one thing few people think about. Primarily, people discard it without a thought of reuse. But why waste oil if one can instead repurpose it, thereby cutting down environmental waste and, at the very best, save money?
Environmental Impact of Waste Oil
Improper disposal of used oil can create drastic effects on the environment. Pouring used cooking oil down the drain will clog the pipes and cause havoc in the sewage system, even requiring expensive repair works afterward. Just like pouring waste motor oil on the ground or down into water bodies, it will pollute the soil and aquatic life, thus causing unfathomable permanent damages. One gallon of improperly discarded motor oil can pollute up to one million gallons of fresh water!
Practical Ways of Reusing Cooking Oil
Here are some good things to do with used cooking oil before throwing it away rather than discarding it:
Biodiesel Formation: Using waste vegetable oils and turning them to biodiesel has become the hobby of many individuals and organizations.
Make Your Own Soap and Candles: Filter and process it into soaps: reduces wastage and gives an alternative that is way sustainable and tends to chemical-infested commercial products.
Additive for Pet Food: Used oil may potentially flavor and provide important fatty acids for addition to pet food if used sparingly; ensure that this is suitable for your pet’s diet conditions.
Light Lubrication for Home Items: It will be more effective than the usual commercial way when used cooking oil is applied to the maintenance of hinges, tools, and garden equipment.