All this talk about fluorescent light bulbs, but I've heard that they contain mercury that is really bad for the environment if not disposed of properly. Is this true? If so how can I find out where to dispose of such light bulbs? Also how can we spreed to other people the need to proper disposal?
2007-05-16 04:14:00 · 7 answers · asked by Slexie 3 in Environment ➔ Green Living
The Chicago Tribune had an article on this in Sunday's paper, along with a list of recycling facilities for the bulbs in the Chicago area.
Otherwise, Earth 911 has a list of centers by zip code. There is a list off of GE's CFL FAQ page.
(I'm fortunate - my office has a collection bin for workers to bring in their used CFL's and batteries.)
2007-05-16 04:20:41 · answer #1 · answered by Patti C 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
While it is true fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, it isn't much. And it isn't only the new compact fluorescent bulbs, the traditional 4 foot long fluorescent tubes do too. Other things contain mercury too. The silver fillings in my teeth contain mercury for example. Probably more than a compact fluorescent light, but that is just a guess on my part.
But I suppose recycling of burned out fluorescent bulbs would be a good idea anyway. The mercury could be collected and reused to make new bulbs.
Here is a quote from the source:
While CFLs for your home are not legally considered hazardous waste according to federal solid waste rules, it is still best for the environment to dispose of your CFL properly upon burnout. Only large commercial users of tubular fluorescent lamps are required to recycle. If recycling is not an option in your area, place the CFL in a sealed plastic bag and dispose the same way you would batteries, oil-based paint and motor oil at your local Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Site. If your local HHW Collection Site cannot accept CFLs (check Earth911.org to find out), seal the CFL in a plastic bag and place with your regular trash.
2007-05-16 04:23:45 · answer #2 · answered by campbelp2002 7 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Yes fluorescent lights do contain mercury and it is bad for the environment to just throw them in the trash. That is why many companies are starting a pick up program. You can drop off your use bulbs at Home Depot or Walmart and they will recycle them for you for free.
2007-05-16 04:20:08 · answer #3 · answered by Cap10 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
The newer lamps contain a very small amount of mercury and can be disposed of safely. The older lamps are the ones that need to be disposed of via recycling at an approved location.
The "brand names" of low mercury lamps are:
Ecolux - GE
Ecologic - Sylvania
Alto - Phillips
2007-05-16 04:31:24 · answer #4 · answered by Bryan M 1 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Contact your local recycling facility to learn where these are to be taken care of.
The same goes with batteries as well.
getting the word out? That is always a tough sell. A person usually thinks in terms of themselves and cannot comprehend a larger picture.
If every person in America disposes just one battery a month, that is 1.6 BILLION batteries a year.
2007-05-16 04:21:20 · answer #5 · answered by Experto Credo 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I am so glad you ask that question.I'm taking out fixture and putting in new ones that the new bulbs will fit in.My daughter tried to talk me out of the new bulbs,because she heard that it cost a lot if one was broken.I will call my Walmarts and ask there.Good question....
2007-05-16 07:27:33 · answer #6 · answered by Maw-Maw 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just toss them out like people have tossed out flourescent tube bulbs for decades. These newer CF bulbs are no different in design just shape. Its never been a problem for all the decades flourescent tubes have been in use, its just another trouble maker enviromental nut job stiring up the pot again needlessly.
2007-05-16 04:35:13 · answer #7 · answered by Sane 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋