Compact Fluorescent Bulb Disposal
Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFB) have many positive qualities including:
- long life
However, CFB are manufactured with a small amount of mercury and therefore need to be disposed of properly. Improper disposal can result in ground and possibly water contamination from the mercury vapor in the bulbs.
"Most states do not have special requirements for the disposal of regular household mercury-containing fluorescent lamps (including compact fluorescents), although a few states and localities ban homeowners from disposing of such lamps in normal household trash."
"Many towns and cities offer recycling opportunities at local recycling centers or transfer stations. There may also be household hazardous waste collection days when fluorescent lamps are collected along with paints, pesticides, used motor oil, etc. Contact your local waste disposal officials for details. State requirements and recycling opportunities vary.
"For more information, including a list of companies that recycle lamps, visit www.lamprecycle.org."
"Please Note: Recycling companies at www.lamprecycle.org do not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by GE or NEMA of the companies or their technologies. Persons contacting the listed companies should make their own investigations and determinations about the costs and appropriateness of the activities of the listed companies."
Via: GE Consumer and Industrial Lighting Link