CFL RECYCLING - Fox 2 News Headlines

CLF bulbs are a bright idea!  They last ten times longer than regular bulbs and use 75% less energy.  But when that bulb burns out – don't stop protecting the environment.

The FOX2 ETeam and DTE Energy remind you to recycle your CFL bulbs.     The Environmental Protection Agency offers these helpful tips:

Why is Recycling CFLs Important? According to the EPA:

• Recycling prevents the release of mercury into the environment.  CFLs and other fluorescent bulbs often break when thrown into a dumpster, trash can or compactor, or when they end up in a landfill or incinerator. Learn more about CFLs and mercury.
• Other materials in the bulbs get reused.  Recycling CFLs and other fluorescent bulbs allows the reuse of the glass, metals and other materials that make up fluorescent lights. Virtually all components of a fluorescent bulb can be recycled.

How and Where Can I Recycle CFLs?

► Contact your local waste collection agency

• Visit Earth911.com to find collection schedules in your area or drop-off locations if curbside collections are not available. 

► Visit your local retailers

Many hardware supply stores and other retailers offer in-store recycling. Visit Earth911.com  to find stores in your area or check the list below.  Stores include Ace Hardware, Home Depot and Lowe's.

What If I Can't Recycle?

If your state or local environmental regulatory agency permits you to put used or broken CFLs in the regular household trash, seal the bulb in a plastic bag and put it into the outside trash for the next normal trash collection.