Used oil is exactly what its name implies, any petroleum-based or synthetic that has been used. During normal use, impurities such as dirt, metal scrapings, water or chemicals, can get mixed in with the oil, so that in time, the oil no longer performs well. Eventually, this used oil must be replaced with virgin or re-refined oil to do the job correctly. California collects approximately 91.3 million gallons of used motor oil annually.

Used oil can be re-refined into new lubricating oil in an endless recycled loop. The Department of Energy recognized the energy and environmental benefits of re-refining in its July 2006 Used Oil Re-refining Study, which showed used oil can be re-refined into lubricating oil that is equal or better than oil made from crude.

What Already Exists
In CA, the CIWMB oversees the Used Oil Recycling Program, which sets up a network of collection opportunities and outreach efforts to inform and motivate the public to recycle used oil.

The CIWMB also administers the California Oil Recycling Enhancement Act, designed to discourage the illegal disposal of used oil. This law requires oil manufacturers to pay to the Board $0.16 for each gallon of lubricating oil sold in California. Registered industrial generators, curbside collection programs, and certified collection centers are eligible to receive $0.16 for each gallon of used lubricating oil recycled.

FIND a place near you to recycle your used motor oil!>>