Although fluorescent lamps save energy, thereby benefiting the environment, the mercury all fluorescent lamps contain is a highly toxic, heavy metal that can harm the environment when spent lamps are improperly disposed of. The 106 pounds of mercury annually generated by New Hampshire's 2.4 million spent lamps makes fluorescent lamps one of the largest sources of mercury in the state. Because there are few recycling or disposal options for homeowners or small businesses, only 20 percent to 30 percent of spent fluorescent lamps are properly recycled; the rest are generally tossed in the trash with serious environmental and health consequences.
Ace Hardware stores and TrueValue hardware stores have teamed up with the Department of Environmental Services to offer free lamp recycling for New Hampshire residents and small businesses for up to six fluorescent lamps per visit. If you have questions concerning the recycling program, contact Paul Lockwood at (603) 271-2956 or paul.lockwood@des.nh.gov.
What kind of lamps can be recycled?
- 8' and 4' linear fluorescent bulbs
- Compact fluorescent bulbs
- Linear fluorescent bulbs from tanning
booths, black lights, grow lamps, etc. - Circular fluorescent bulbs
- High Intensity Discharge car headlights
- HID lights such as mercury vapor, metal halide, etc.
Read more…
Fluorescent Lamp Recycling Project
- Mercury in the Home
- Mercury Publications and Related Web sites
- Cleaning up a Broken Fluorescent lamp
- Hardware Stores that Recycle Lamps
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