Fluorescent Bulb Handling and Recycling

Did you know...

Fluorescent bulbs and tubes are considered hazardous waste and cannot just be thrown in the trash. They contain vaporized mercury gas that once released in the environment is difficult or impossible to recover.

Why Recycle Fluorescents:

All fluorescent bulbs contain mercury. Even though today's fluorescent tubes contain a small amount of mercury, the cumulative volume of mercury contained in lamps is still significant. Mercury released from broken lamps becomes atmospheric mercury that is then deposited in lakes and builds up in fish. High levels of mercury in fish have spurred fish consumption advisories throughout our state.

Some brands are marketed as low-mercury, and may be marked with green end caps. These may be good choices to help minimize the effects of an accidental release. When fluorescent bulbs are recycled, the glass as well as other metals are recycled as well.

Even though fluorescent bulbs contain mercury, they are still a good choice for protecting the environment. Using fluorescent lamps saves energy. Energy production from coal-fired power plants releases a lot more mercury into the environment than broken fluorescent bulbs.

Mercury is an acute, bioaccumulative toxin. Even a small amount, such as what is typically found in a mercury switch, can be harmful. Mercury-containing lamps should never be incinerated

The following mercury-containing items must be disposed of properly:

Where to Recycle Fluorescent Bulbs

For more information on recycling and hazardous waste management, visit www.recyclenow.org or see the Sonoma County Recycle Guide located in the ATT Yellow Pages "behind the tab" under R for recycling. Visit www.unicycler.com for solid waste and recycling service information.

Household Toxics Facility

Located at Central Disposal Site, the Household Toxics Facility is open every week, year 'round for free drop-off of toxics from Sonoma County residents. Bring your ID to prove residency.

Community Toxics Collections

Every week, on Tuesdays from 4-8 pm., there is a toxics collection somewhere in Sonoma County. Bring your ID to prove residency. The following is a partial list of upcoming toxic collections events. See www.recyclenow.org for a complete schedule.

Toxics Rover pick up service:

Have your toxics picked up from your home. Call 877-747-1870 or 795-2025 to make an appointment. Appointment line staffed M-F 1-4pm or leave a message. Limited appointments available. A fee will be charged for residential pick up. Limited free pickup available for homebound seniors and the disabled.

What else can I do?

Support "take-back" programs. Encourage retailers who sell products that require special handling and recycling to provide "take-back" options for fluorescent bulbs (as well as household batteries and paints!)