How to Recycle Mercury Light Bulbs
Light bulbs contain mercury, which can be harmful to the environment and your indoor air if broken or improperly disposed. Although the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that most fluorescent bulbs contain 3 to 15 milligrams of mercury, this small amount could still be hazardous. People choose fluorescent bulbs because they are more efficient, last longer and use less energy than normal bulbs. As long as light bulbs containing mercury are safely handled, they are perfectly safe to use in your home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Used light bulb
- Computer or phone
- Internet or phone connection
- Box, bag or towel
- Safety gloves
Instructions
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When your mercury light bulb has burned out, turn the light off, and prepare to remove the bulb. It is wise to wear safety gloves in case you apply too much pressure when removing the light bulb. Carefully remove the light bulb.
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If you break the bulb on accident, use a pair of gloves and gingerly pick up the broken pieces. Collect the pieces in a puncture-proof bag. The broken pieces will still be accepted for recycling. Do not vacuum up the mess as it could push mercury into your carpet. Instead use a damp cloth or paper towel to clean the area, disposing of it after use. Some mercury can escape into your indoor air from the broken bulb, so open windows and turn on a fan to fully ventilate the area.
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Store the used mercury light bulb in the box it was purchased in. If you did not save the box, find a box or bag that will safely contain the bulb. Once you've removed the bulb without breaking it, you want to continue to keep it safe. Use a towel or paper to stabilize the bulb and keep it from breaking against the box.
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Find a recycling center that accepts mercury containing light bulbs or fluorescent bulbs. Use the phone book or an Internet search to find recycling centers in your area. If the center's website does not mention fluorescent or mercury containing bulbs, call and ask. Some recycling centers may charge a fee for accepting this item, so do not be alarmed. If needed, contact your local government's department of waste for information on recycling hazardous materials. If you have a Home Depot or an IKEA in your area, these stores often accept mercury-containing bulbs for recycling. Contact the store near you to confirm.
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Load your car carefully to take the used mercury light bulb to the recycling center. Place the box with your bulb in a place that will not roll around when the car is in motion.
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