Proper Disposal of CFLs
CFLs contain a small amount (approx. 4 mg) of mercury. When you use compact fluorescent lights, you actually reduce mercury pollution, by lowering the demand for electricity from power plants that emit mercury. A typical power plant will emit 5.5 mg of mercury to produce the electricity to run an incandescent bulb compared to only 1.2 mg to run a compact fluorescent light for the same time.*
Mercury is released into our environment when products containing mercury, such as compact fluorescent lights, are broken, disposed of improperly, or incinerated.
The State of Vermont requires, by law, that lamps with the mercury symbol (Hg) be separated from trash and disposed of in a safe manner. When you replace energy-efficient lights, contact your local solid waste district or the State Mercury Education and Reduction Campaign. Call (800) 974-9559 or visit the Vermont Education and Reduction Campaign for proper disposal information.
* U.S. EPA Fact Sheet: Mercury in Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)