What must you do with used motor oil and hazardous materials?

Returning used motor oil and hazardous materials to the place where they were purchased is the correct action to take because retailers often have established protocols for the safe and responsible disposal of such items. Many auto and hardware stores are equipped to handle these materials and may have recycling programs in place. This not only ensures that these materials are disposed of correctly but also minimizes environmental harm.

The other options represent unsafe practices that can lead to contamination of soil and water sources, creating serious environmental health risks. Disposing of motor oil or hazardous materials in regular trash, in landfills, or pouring them down the drain is not only illegal in many jurisdictions, but it also poses a threat to public health and safety. Therefore, returning them to the place of purchase aligns with both legal regulations and responsible environmental stewardship.