Energy-efficient light bulbs cannot be thrown into the regular trash.
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Compact fluorescent lamps, or CFLs, use around 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs with the same light output. CFLs cost more than normal bulbs, but the energy savings, which can exceed $40 for one bulb over its lifetime, easily outweigh the initial cost (see References 1). CFLs contain mercury, a toxin, and putting them in the regular trash can endanger sanitation workers and pollute groundwater (see References 2). Many states make it illegal to put CFLs in the regular trash and require that they be taken to a hazardous waste recycling facility (see References 3). It should be noted that because the burning of coal for electricity releases mercury into the air, switching to CFLs actually reduces mercury pollution (see References 4).
Items you will need:
- Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, rags or other padding materials
- Box or container
Remove the CFL from the socket, making sure that the switch is off and the bulb is cool to the touch.
Store the bulbs someplace safe until you can recycle them. Use the same box the bulb originally came in, or the one which contained the replacement bulbs. Otherwise, reuse an old cardboard box. To prevent an accident, reuse some old bubble wrap, packing peanuts, plastic shopping bags or rags as padding.
Call a hazardous waste recycling facility near your home. Earth911.com provides a database of licensed facilities throughout the United States. When you call, ask about the facility's policies. Some recycling centers pick up wastes at your home, others make only a few collections each year and some require you to deliver the spent bulbs yourself.
Deliver the spent CFLs to a hazardous waste recycling facility. Make sure the bulbs are secured and won't roll around while you drive.
Tips
- Certain retailers, such as Home Depot, Ace Hardware, IKEA, Orchard Supply and Lowe's, accept CFLs for recycling. Call a store near you to see if it takes part in this program.
Warnings
- Be very careful while handling CFLs. Some recycling facilities do not accept broken bulbs. If a bulb breaks, follow the Environmental Protection Agency's instructions on how to safely clean up a broken CFL.
Eric Moll began writing professionally in 2006. He wrote an opinion column for the "Arizona Daily Wildcat" and worked as an editor for "Persona Literary Magazine." He has a Bachelor of Science in environmental science and creative writing from the University of Arizona.
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