Worchester Telegram: Good question
Filed under: Earth 911 - June 26, 2007
June 23, 2007
Question: Where can I dispose of compact fluorescent lights? I’d like to start using them for economic and environmental purposes, but I understand that CFLs shouldn’t simply be thrown in the trash because they contain mercury.
Answer: Although recycling is best, your state may allow trashing the bulbs. Go to this Web site: www.lamprecycle.org and click on “State Lamp Recycling Regulations & Contacts.” There’s a list of recyclers at that address too. You can also try www.earth911.org. Type CFL in the What? box and your ZIP code in the other to find a recycling center. If you can dispose of them legally in your state the Environmental Protection Agency recommends that you double bag them in plastic before putting them in your trash bag.
CFLs contain about 5 milligrams of mercury, which is roughly enough to cover the tip of a ball-point pen. No mercury is released when the bulbs are intact or in use.
The EPA recommends CFLs be used to save energy and money. Replacing a 60-watt incandescent with a 13-watt CFL can save you at least $30 in energy costs over the bulb’s life. CFLs last up to 10 times longer and produce about 70 percent less heat.