Light Bulbs
Incandescent light bulbs should not be included with household recyclables because they are not an acceptable kind of glass. They must be discarded with regular trash.
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are becoming more popular in households today because of their environmental and cost-saving benefits. But these bulbs contain small amounts of mercury, and should be recycled to avoid contaminating the environment.
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If CFLs are recycled, they release less mercury into the environment than traditional incandescent bulbs. CFLs use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs, so less mercury is released from coal-fire power plants throughout the lifetime of the bulb. Once properly recycled, the mercury in the bulb can be recovered for reuse.
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Focus on Energy has a simple search engine to find Wisconsin retailers that accept compact fluorescent light bulbs for recycling.
1. CLICK HERE
2. Enter your county and zip code
3. Choose your utility providers
4. You will be given locations to recycle CFL light bulbs, as well as information on other ways to make your home efficient.
If you have fluorescent tubes, many municipal drop-off sites will accept them. Search for your community above, and contact them about the proper disposal.
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Resources:
Banned from Wisconsin landfills:
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Not for residential sources
Links:
