A reader recently asked me the proper way to dispose of a compact fluorescent bulb. I started to answer, but then realized that I had yet to have that problem. When we moved into this house almost 5 years ago, we replaced the outside lighting with CFLs and those bulbs are still going strong. So in order to answer this reader, I had to do a little research.
Why can't CFLs go into the trash? Modern compact fluorescent bulbs contain 1.4-2.5 milligrams of mercury, depending on the manufacturer, and we don't want that chemical in our landfills.
Where can I take used CFLs? First put the burnt-out bulb into a bag, just in case it breaks. While you can take these old bulbs to ToxDrop, why not take them to your neighborhood Home Depot instead? All Indianapolis locations have bright orange drop boxes for used CFLs. Since so many things in Home Depot are bright orange, try looking near the Returns desk. Then you can pick up a replacement bulb while you are there.
A big round of applause to Home Depot for being environmentally responsible!
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