Dispose of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Safely!
Replacing conventional light bulbs in your home with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) is a great way to save on energy bills and protect the environment. CFLs use 1/4 to 1/5 the energy of incandescent bulbs and last up to 20 times longer. They can be used anywhere you would use a regular light bulb, but have the longest life if they are generally left on for more than 15 minutes.
Like all fluorescent bulbs, CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, which means that improper disposal of spent bulbs can lead to health and environmental risks. Don’t throw used CFLs in the trash or break them; save them in a safe place (keep the original packaging!) until you can take them to one of the following locations
- Puget Sound Energy – 1329 State Street (CFLs only)
- Home Depot – 420 Telegraph Road (CFLs only)
- Disposal of Toxics – 3505 Airport Drive (CFLs and tubes)
If you have more questions or are a business interested in recycling fluorescent lighting call Disposal of Toxics at (360) 380-4640.
If a fluorescent light breaks, it is very important to follow the proper cleaning procedures. Review the information here to learn how to safely deal with a small mercury spill.
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