Changing a car's motor oil is an important part of maintaining engine protection and performance, and — with gas prices climbing ever higher — an economical way to guarantee better fuel mileage. However, most people do not realize that what they do with used motor oil is just as important as performing this basic task in the first place. With National Car Care Month and Earth Week fast approaching, Earth911.com and Castrol® have teamed up to provide the nation's DIYers with some basic information about the potential environmental impact of incorrectly performed automotive maintenance.

According to Castrol, almost half of the oil changes done in the United States are performed by car owners who do it themselves, or DIYers. Although the majority of those people follow proper procedures, one oil change — improperly disposed and not recycled — can contaminate one million gallons of fresh water, which is a year's supply for 50 people. Castrol has provided some basic tips online so that Americans can learn how to properly dispose of used motor oil, as well as locate recycling centers.

"Many times it is a lack of information that prevents people from acting responsibly," says Derrick Mains, vice president of Energy Reclamation Initiatives with Earth911.com. "Earth911.com and Castrol hope to help inform the public about the issue of improperly disposing used motor oil and give those that change their own oil the resources to take the necessary steps toward safe recycling."

Used motor oil is insoluble, slow to degrade and can contain heavy metals. Used motor oil, if not disposed of properly or recycled, can be a source of contamination in waterways and can result in pollution of drinking-water sources.

"We all have a responsibility to help protect the environment," adds Matt McHale, associate brand manager at Castrol. "Castrol is dedicated to helping the public find quick and simple ways to recycle used motor oil and lower the possibility of improper disposal."

According to Castrol, part of the teaching process is to clarify
misconceptions regarding the issue. A common misconception is that oil recycling centers are difficult to find. However, there are more than 30,000 convenient recycling centers nationwide, and a majority of automotive shops and quick lube retailers will take used motor oil if it is in a proper container, like a sealable, approved oil drip pan or a motor oil bottle.

"EPA appreciates the efforts of entities like Earth911.com and Castrol who provide consumers with information about the importance and convenience of recycling used motor oil," says Matt Hale, Director of EPA's Office of Solid Waste. "Recycling used motor oil conserves energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and prevents the possible contamination of our nation's drinking water supplies."

For more information about Castrol and its partnership with Earth911.com, visit the company's Web site.