In recent years the EPA has been aggressively promoting the sale and use of fluorescent light bulbs. Because fluorescent bulbs are much more energy efficient than standard bulbs the widespread use of fluorescent bulbs is predicted to help curb global warming. However, there is one major problem, fluorescent light bulbs contain mercury, and proper fluorescent light bulb recycling initiatives are essential if the program is to be considered an environmental success.
Each fluorescent light bulb contains a small amount of mercury, which is a harmful neurotoxin. This in itself is not an environmental disaster. However, if these light bulbs are not disposed of properly, the presence of mercury in these light bulbs poses a serious environmental concern.
As it stands, most fluorescent light bulbs are not recycled at all, they are dumped in landfills, and if these landfills are not properly contained mercury could easily leak into the groundwater. Mercury in drinking water is a serious concern, as mercury contamination is generally more or less permanent. Right now mercury contamination is a serious problem in the fish industry, specifically with large fish, and if we continue to contaminate water with mercury this problem will continue to spread.
Still, many mercury problems start long before the bulbs make it to the landfill. A broken bulb can expose sanitation workers to harmful mercury. Likewise, a broken bulb in a yard can contaminate the soil, which, over time, could contaminate the ground water. The obvious solution to this problem is a proper fluorescent light bulb recycling system.
Unfortunately, very few places have efficient fluorescent light bulb recycling systems in place. As it stands, people that want to properly recycle fluorescent light bulbs need to purchase a fluorescent bulb recycling system. Bulbs are placed in an individual bag, a larger bin, and then are picked up by a private parcel service. This service is generally tax deductible and is a small price to pay to keep our water clean.
Recycle Technologies, Inc. Is a Minnesota Fluorescent Light Bulb Recycling leader!
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