Coolant drained from the cooling system when replacing a thermostat or water pump should be ________.

When replacing components such as a thermostat or water pump, it is crucial to handle the drained coolant responsibly. Proper disposal or recycling is the correct action to take because automotive coolant often contains toxic substances, such as ethylene glycol, which can be harmful to the environment and potentially fatal to animals if dumped on the ground. Local regulations often mandate that such fluids be disposed of in accordance with environmental guidelines, which typically involve bringing them to a recycling facility or an authorized disposal site. This ensures that the coolant is either treated safely or repurposed, minimizing environmental impact and promoting sustainability.