By now, almost everyone knows about energy-saving Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs -- and that CFLs contain mercury.

Not much, but no amount is safe. Which makes recycling the ticket.

Start with a call to your local waste system to ask about mercury disposal. In the U.S., Earth 911 lists most recycling centers and drop-offs. Many stores offer CFL take-backs. There are also inexpensive mail-in options, such as Partners in Planet Protection or those listed at LampRecycle.org.

Or simply store old CFLs. With an estimated 5-year service life, there will likely be plenty of convenient disposal options long before your bulb burns out.

See also: How to Live With CFLs 

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One person has commented on this article.

 1. Not as Easy at it sounds
Paula G, Guest

I love the idea that we can recycle the CFLs as well as other "hazardous materials". What I found not long ago though when I hunted through Earth 911 was that the closest recycling center of this type for me was over an hour away each direction. Hardly time or fuel efficient. I will check out the mail in options (not as easy to do with old paint and wood stain cans) because I really want to dispose of things responsibly but so far haven't found it feasibly. Here's to hoping for more convenient options (perhaps even mandatory so it forces convenience on a big scale) soon.

 Posted 2007-08-23 12:31:16