Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLS) are more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs but contain mercury, so they must be disposed of properly after they burn out. Retailers including The Home Depot and Lowe's have recycling programs for CFLs and provide bins for collection.
A recent TreeHugger.com article describes how CFLs are recycled and the materials reused. "A bulb recycler uses special machines to extract mercury and break down the CFL’s glass casing and aluminum fixtures. They can reuse the mercury in new light bulbs or in products like thermostats. The glass becomes material like concrete or tile, while the aluminum is recycled as scrap metal. Not only does recycling CFLs divert waste from the landfill, but it also prevents the release of toxic mercury into the environment."* The article also provides instructions for how to handle a broken CFL bulb: "Immediately have all other people and pets leave the room so they can avoid exposure. Open a window or door to the outside to air out the room for 5-10 minutes while you collect all broken glass and visible powder. Do not vacuum up the pieces because this could spread mercury-containing powder or vapor.
Place all broken glass and powder in a sealable container and check with your local government about disposal requirements."*
*Lauren Murphy, March 14, 2022, "How to Recycle Light Bulbs and Why You Should," www.treehugger.com
--https://www.treehugger.com/light-bulb-recycling-5206232?utm_campaign=treehugger&utm_medium=email&utm_source=cn_nl&utm_content=25939313&utm_term=
A recent TreeHugger.com article describes how CFLs are recycled and the materials reused. "A bulb recycler uses special machines to extract mercury and break down the CFL’s glass casing and aluminum fixtures. They can reuse the mercury in new light bulbs or in products like thermostats. The glass becomes material like concrete or tile, while the aluminum is recycled as scrap metal. Not only does recycling CFLs divert waste from the landfill, but it also prevents the release of toxic mercury into the environment."* The article also provides instructions for how to handle a broken CFL bulb: "Immediately have all other people and pets leave the room so they can avoid exposure. Open a window or door to the outside to air out the room for 5-10 minutes while you collect all broken glass and visible powder. Do not vacuum up the pieces because this could spread mercury-containing powder or vapor.
Place all broken glass and powder in a sealable container and check with your local government about disposal requirements."*
*Lauren Murphy, March 14, 2022, "How to Recycle Light Bulbs and Why You Should," www.treehugger.com
--https://www.treehugger.com/light-bulb-recycling-5206232?utm_campaign=treehugger&utm_medium=email&utm_source=cn_nl&utm_content=25939313&utm_term=
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