Small Business / CESQG

Small businesses often referred to as CESQG’s (conditionally exempt small quantity generators) are considered by many public agencies as a group of businesses with the least knowledge of hazardous waste laws. In addition, even when the small business may know the laws, they may choose to avoid them by illegally disposing of their hazardous waste due to such factors as cost. Even when some small businesses are willing to pay the cost associated with the proper management of their hazardous waste, they may not find a hazardous waste transporter willing to service their business due in part to the small quantity of waste.

Large hazardous waste contractors usually work with large hazardous waste generators or at least “larger” businesses than the typical CESQG. This term was coined in federal legislation which provides exemptions to entities generating less than 220# of hazardous waste per month or who have accumulated less than 2,200# of hazardous waste at any one time.

In most states (California being just one exception), a business falling into the CESQG exemption is not required to have an EPA ID number and their waste can be handled much as household hazardous waste is managed. By reducing the requirements, the thought is that it is easier for CESQG’s to legally dispose of their waste. The concept is sound in that some small businesses will not want to obtain an ID number and thereby show up on the “radar” of state and/or federal regulators. Some small business owners are immigrants and do not understand our legal system.

Some public agencies will pay 100% of the cost for Curbside Inc. to collect and manage hazardous waste from small businesses, specifically CESQG’s. While it is difficult to turn down the revenue, we believe that it is in the best interest of the community to have the businesses pay their own way. By providing a program for small businesses in your community, you will solve some of the key problems such as, lack of availability, affordability and ease of use. All of this can be provided through Curbside Inc. while the participating business pays 100% of their cost.

There are two basic ways that your public agency can implement a small business program with Curbside Inc.  Either contract directly with Curbside to provide services in which case participants earn a 10% discount or simply refer small businesses to Curbside.  The business pays 100% of the cost and deals directly with Curbside.  There is no liability on the part of the public agency.  When public agencies contract directly with Curbside as indicated above, they receive reports indicating the waste collected from whom and when.  Generally this information is included in stormwater reports.

To get started, contact us at 888-449-3733 ex 107 or email at business@curbsideinc.com