What should I know about compact flourescent light (CFL) bulbs?
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) are energy-efficient, money-saving replacements for traditional incandescent light bulbs. CFLs cost a little more at the register, but they provide a savings over the life of the bulb.
CFLs do contain a small amount of mercury, an average of five milligrams of mercury–enough to cover the tip of a ballpoint pen. A watch battery contains about five times as much mercury. The mercury is not emitted when CFLs are in use.
CFLs and other fluorescent light bulbs, such as four or eight foot tubes, should not be disposed of in the trash–doing so will allow the mercury contained in the bulbs to escape into the environment. Instead, all fluorescent light bulbs should be recycled. Click here to view a list of local recycling options.
The District accepts CFLs and all other types of fluorescent light bulbs during the Tox-Away Day events.