Disposing of used cooking oil down the sink is a more common practice in many Spanish households than one might assume – often due to ignorance. However, this seemingly harmless act not only constitutes a serious violation of applicable law but also causes significant environmental damage.
Spanish Law 7/2022 on Waste and Contaminated Soil for a Circular Economy classifies the discharge of oil as an administrative offense, as it is a non-hazardous waste that poses a significant environmental threat. Article 108 classifies this form of disposal as a serious violation due to the abandonment or uncontrolled management of waste. Fines can range from €2,001 to €100,000, depending on the quantity disposed of, possible repeat offenses, or the extent of the damage caused.
Legal and Environmental Consequences
In addition to the legal risks, the improper disposal of used oil has a direct impact on urban sewer systems. The oil clogs pipes, leads to the formation of grease deposits in the system, and impairs the operation of wastewater treatment plants. The cost of clearing these blockages amounts to over 90 million euros annually across Europe.
From an ecological perspective, the consequences are even more serious: According to the Aquae Foundation, just a single liter of oil can contaminate up to 1,000 liters of water. If it enters rivers or groundwater, it impedes the oxygen supply and thus endangers numerous animal and plant species.
In Spain, around 350 million liters of used cooking oil are generated annually – according to Repsol, this equates to about 10 liters per person. However, while 72% of used oil generated in the hospitality industry is recycled, the figure for private households is just 5%. This discrepancy exacerbates the environmental problem and underscores the urgent need to raise public awareness about proper disposal.
Where should I put the used oil? Proper Disposal
Proper disposal is carried out in accordance with regulations as follows:
Collection in sealed containers: After cooling, the used oil should be poured into plastic bottles or other tightly sealed containers to avoid water residue. Oil residue from cans can also be collected in this way.
Recycling centers and special collection containers: The collected oil is then taken to a recycling center (often referred to as a “Punto Limpio” in Spain). Many municipalities also provide orange collection containers or organize temporary collection campaigns, often in cooperation with NGOs or waste disposal companies.
In the Autonomous Community of Madrid, for example, according to the company’s website, over 450 gas stations accept used oil. Some even offer incentives, such as 30 cents credit in the Waylet app for each recycled liter.
From Waste to Resource: The Diverse Uses of Recycled Oil
Recycling used oil not only prevents environmental damage but also creates economic added value. This waste oil serves as a raw material for the production of 100% renewable biofuels, such as biodiesel. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these can reduce CO2 emissions by 80 to 90% compared to fossil fuels.
Recycled oil can also be used to manufacture products such as cleaning agents, fertilizers, soaps, paints, candles, and even bituminous binders for asphalt.
