Used Oil Management Guidelines

Protecting Botswana's Environment Through Responsible Used Oil Handling

Used oil requires careful handling to prevent contamination of our soil, water resources and surrounding environment. Whether generated by vehicles, machinery, industrial equipment or other operations, used oil should be collected, stored and managed responsibly.

Tshole Trust promotes environmentally responsible used oil management across Botswana through public education, stakeholder collaboration and support for used oil collection and recycling initiatives.

These guidelines provide practical information to help individuals, businesses and organisations manage used oil safely and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.

Our message: No Oil to the Ground.

Understanding used oil

What Is Used Oil?

Used oil is petroleum-based or synthetic oil that has been used in machinery, engines or equipment and has become contaminated or degraded through normal operation.

Motor Vehicle Engine Oil

Oil drained from cars, trucks, buses and other vehicles during servicing.

Hydraulic & Industrial Oil

Oil used in hydraulic systems, industrial machinery and manufacturing equipment.

Transmission & Gear Oil

Lubricants removed from vehicle transmissions, gearboxes and differentials.

Heavy Equipment Lubricants

Used lubricants generated by agricultural, mining and construction equipment.

When improperly disposed of, used oil can contaminate soil, pollute water sources and harm ecosystems. However, properly collected used oil may be suitable for recovery, re-refining or other approved recycling processes.

Six Steps to Responsible Used Oil Management

Step 1: Collect Used Oil Properly

Drain used oil into a suitable collection container. Avoid spilling oil onto the ground, workshop floors or drainage systems. Use drip trays and funnels where appropriate.

Step 2: Store in Suitable Containers

Use leak-resistant, compatible containers with secure lids. Clearly label containers USED OIL and keep them in good condition.

Step 3: Prevent Leaks and Spills

Keep containers upright in a secure, covered area with suitable secondary containment. Inspect containers regularly for damage and leakage.

Step 4: Avoid Mixing Waste Materials

Do not mix used oil with petrol, solvents, antifreeze, water or other waste substances. Mixing can create safety hazards and make recycling more difficult.

Step 5: Arrange Responsible Collection

Use appropriately authorised used oil collection service providers or approved collection facilities. Keep records of collections and transfers where applicable.

Step 6: Support Recycling and Recovery

Ensure collected oil is directed to appropriate recycling, recovery or approved treatment facilities rather than being dumped or improperly burned.

What you should and should not do

Recommended Practices

Collect used oil in designated containers.
Label and securely close containers.
Store oil away from drains and water sources.
Use suitable spill containment equipment.
Arrange collection through appropriate service providers.
Train employees on safe oil handling.
Maintain collection and disposal records.

Practices to Avoid

Pouring used oil onto the ground.
Disposing of oil in drains or waterways.
Mixing oil with other hazardous substances.
Leaving oil in open or leaking containers.
Dumping oil with general household waste.
Burning used oil without proper authorisation.
Giving oil to unauthorised handlers.