Regulations for Light Bulb Disposal

Incandescent bulbs and compact fluorescent bulbs have different regulations on disposal.

The federal government and some state governments have restricted how certain types of light bulbs can be disposed of. These regulations are designed to protect people and the environment.

Types

Regulations for disposal vary depending on the type of light bulb: Incandescent light bulbs can be tossed in the garbage, but compact fluorescent bulbs and high intensity discharge bulbs cannot because they contain mercury.

Risks

Compact fluorescent bulbs and high intensity discharge bulbs contain mercury, a toxic chemical, which can escape into the air, soil and water when the bulbs are broken. According to the Iowa Waste Reduction Center, mercury can cause damage to the brain, nervous system, kidney and liver.

Uses

Compact fluorescent bulbs are used primarily in public buildings like hospitals, school and retail outlets. High intensity discharge bulbs are commonly found in streetlamps, factories and parting lot lighting.

Recycling

When mercury-containing bulbs are collected, they are broken down under careful supervision. The glass shards are collected and recycled and the mercury vapors are collected and reused.

Regulations

Light bulb disposal regulations are important because they protect people from being exposed to mercury. If mercury-containing light bulbs were disposed of in regular garbage, the mercury could contaminate workplaces, homes and water sources.

References

• Iowa Waste Reduction Center
• EPA: Bulb Disposal
• Bulb Disposal