How to Dispose of Mini Fluorescent Light Bulbs

As environmental awareness expands, many people have become eager to do their part by conserving energy. Mini fluorescent light bulbs or compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) have made a considerable difference in lowering energy consumption in America. However, these energy-saving bulbs do have a drawback. Many people are surprised to learn that each CFL contains small amounts of dangerous mercury. When disposed of improperly, these bulbs can contaminate your home and the environment. If you need to dispose of your mini-fluorescent light bulbs, take them to a recycling center, where they can be dealt with safely.

Instructions

1. Do not dispose of mini fluorescent light bulbs with your usual garbage.

2. Visit the website www.earth911.com, as recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

3. Enter the letters "CFL" for "compact fluorescent light bulbs" in the blank titled "Find recycling centers for."

4. Enter your zip code in the blank titled "Near." Click search.

5. Take your mini fluorescent light bulbs to one of the recycling centers presented in the search results.

Tips & Warnings

• Compact fluorescent light bulbs are perfectly safe unless they are broken. If you accidentally break one in your home, use a broom to clean the glass instead of a vacuum cleaner, which can cause the mercury to become airborne.

• Mercury can cause a host of health problems. Improper disposal of compact fluorescent light bulbs can harm you, your family and the environment.

References

• Gipl: EPA CFL Disposal Fact Sheet
• CFL Disposal: Disposing of CFL Bulbs
• Green Living Tips: CFL Disposal and Recycling

Resources

• Earth 911: Disposal Sites