Though hailed as an environmental golden child, Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFLs) present a paradox. They use less energy and last longer, but there’s a catch — they contain about 5 milligrams of mercury, a neurotoxin that can wreak havoc on the human body and the environment.
The benefits of CFLs outweigh the concerns about mercury, but the bulbs must be recycled. Luckily, the long life of CFLs gives the Snohomish County Solid Waste Management Division some time to work out a plan. The bulbs don’t release any mercury unless broken.
The mercury in CFLs is a small but important amount. According to the EPA, discarded CFLs account for 2 to 4 tons of mercury released into the environment each year. That’s 2 to 4 tons of liquid metal that impairs the human nervous system and bioaccumulates in fish, meaning organisms that eat the fish (like humans) get greater amounts of mercury in their systems.
Currently, Snohomish County provides nine free drop off locations for household CFLs: three transfer stations, five drop boxes and one moderate risk waste facility, said Sego Jackson, principal planner for the division. For businesses, the options are slightly different and carry a small fee.
But sooner than later, consumers must be able to recycle the bulbs wherever they are sold. Recycling is highly dependent on convenience and the private sector has to step in. Manufacturers and retailers must sign on to provide drop boxes.
For now, it may seem strange to drive to a drop box just for the sake of one light bulb. Jackson advises families to keep a six-pack soda or beer box in a safe place, and drop it off once it’s full of CFLs. If a CFL breaks in your home, shut off your ventilation system and leave the room for 15 minutes. Use tape to pick up any tiny shards, and put the pieces into a glass jar or plastic bag, advises the EPA. Don’t use a vacuum or broom.
CFLs are a transitional technology. Scientists are working on a mercury-free alternative, but until then, consumers should do their part not to send neurotoxins to landfills. The bulbs are not acceptable as waste and not safe to throw in the trash.
On January 1, 2009, Washington will require electronics manufacturers to provide free recycling for items such as televisions and computers. The state should seriously consider creating a similar program for CFLs. By then, Snohomish County should have a great model to emulate.
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