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The Green Key® tool is a simple plastic device that, when inserted into an empty propane cylinder, will release any remaining fumes, rendering the cylinder depressurized and ready to be discarded or recycled where available.
After insertion into an empty propane cylinder, any remaining fumes are released and the tool is permanently locked into the cylinder and becomes an easily visible sign that the cylinder can be discarded along with regular household trash or recycled when and where steel can recycling programs are in place that have added this type of container.
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Why is the Green Key® tool necessary?
If the cylinders are properly “burned off” with an appliance, less than 1 gram of fuel remains, meaning the cylinders can be discarded with household trash. However, some individuals may be concerned about accidentally discarding a cylinder they are not certain is empty. The Green Key® tool will give them peace of mind.
In addition, the Green Key® tool is an important component in Coleman’s efforts to begin encouraging widespread adoption of the empty steel cylinders into community recycling programs.
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How does the Green Key® tool work?
The Green Key® tool is manually inserted into the outlet valve of the empty cylinder and in approximately two minutes the remaining fumes are released. The following warning and instructions will be on Coleman® propane cylinder labels produced as of May 15, 2008, and can be found – along with more information – at www.coleman.com/recycle.
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WARNING: The Coleman® Green Key® tool must be used on an empty propane cylinder in a clear and open outdoor area. Keep away from open flames or other sources of ignition, tents, buildings and other structures. Failure to follow all instructions and warnings could result in fire, burns, property damage, serious injury or death.
INSTRUCTIONS: Ensure the cylinder is empty by operating with an appliance until the flame is extinguished. Use the appliance cylinder probe (fig. 1) to push the tool from the cap. Place empty cylinder upright onto level outdoor surface and push tool into valve (fig. 2). Allow two minutes before recycling or disposal. Do not reinstall black cap on propane cylinder. Recycle cap separately. When the cylinder is empty, use of the Green Key® tool is unlikely to produce the sound or smell of vapor. If the cylinder warms, you may hear or smell vapor escaping for a brief moment. The Green Key® tool is permanently locked into the top of the cylinder and indicates the cylinder is empty, depressurized and ready for proper disposal or steel recycling.
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What if the Green Key® tool falls off the cylinder?
After proper insertion, the tool will be permanently locked into the cylinder. If it comes out, it wasn’t inserted properly and needs to be inserted again, following the instructions on the label.
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What if the tool is accidentally inserted into a non-empty cylinder?
The propane will be released into the surrounding air at a controlled rate, with a full cylinder becoming empty after approximately 45 minutes. That is why it is important that a propane cylinder be used with a propane appliance first to ensure it is empty before inserting the Green Key® tool. It is also why the Coleman label says to use the Green Key® tool in a clear and open outdoor area, away from open flames or other sources of ignition, tents, buildings and other structures.
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Can an empty propane cylinder be thrown into the trash?
Yes, after a cylinder is empty, it can be discarded with regular household trash. Knowing the Green Key® tool has opened the cylinder and released any remaining fumes gives individuals extra peace of mind before discarding it.
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Can an empty propane cylinder be refilled or recycled?
Federal law forbids transportation of this size of cylinder (type 39 DOT cylinder) if it has been refilled, therefore refilling is not practical or recommended.
With a Green Key® tool inserted in it, the vented cylinder is capable of being recycled, but most individuals will not be able to recycle it until widespread integration of the cylinders into local steel recycling programs. The potential is there: In the United States, steel cans are included in 97 percent of all curbside recycling programs and 81 percent of all drop-off programs. The Coleman Company, Inc. is in the beginning stages of inviting communities in the United States and Canada to integrate empty propane cylinders into programs for steel recycling. Coleman also is providing information to waste haulers and recycling facilities on how to divert these empty cylinders from landfill to recycling.
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When and where will the Green Key® tool be available?
Coleman will begin producing the new Coleman® propane cylinders with the Green Key® tools in the caps in spring 2008. In June, they will be available on the shelves of select retailers nationwide including REI and Dick’s Sporting Goods. Cylinders with the Green Key® tool will be clearly marked, so consumers will know which propane cylinders come with the tool. Consumers can buy Green Key® tools separately at select retailers and at www.coleman.com by June 2008.
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What does it cost?
The Green Key® tool will come with every Coleman® propane cylinder as part of the cost of that cylinder. Purchased separately, the Green Key® tools come in packages of six, which have an MSRP of 99 cents.
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Why is Coleman doing this?
Coleman shares the passion of today’s outdoor enthusiasts – whether they are boaters, anglers, campers, mountain climbers or anyone else who appreciates being outside. With that passion comes the desire to be responsible stewards of the environment, so that the outdoors remain great for future generations. Like many other steel products, Coleman’s propane cylinders already are made with an average minimum 25 percent recycled content. The Green Key® tool is just one example of the efforts Coleman is making to reduce carbon emissions, improve its processes and practice the three R’s – reduce, reuse and recycle – in order to minimize waste and conserve our natural resources.
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Coleman® and Green Key® are registered trademarks of The Coleman Company, Inc.
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