How to Recycle a UV Lamp

Ultraviolent light bulbs are known for their long-lasting, fluorescent glow. But UV lamp bulbs are dangerous and must be disposed of carefully. UV bulbs, used in tanning salons, science labs and home terrariums, contain trace amounts of mercury. According to Columbia University, UV lamps that are disposed improperly can release mercury vapors into the air. Those vapors mix with rain and contaminate the water supply. Anyone who consumes this contaminated water can become sick. When UV lamps are disposed properly, this mercury vapor is contained and the environmental impact is greatly lessened.

Instructions

• 1

  Contact your local or state waste management program for information about where lamps can be disposed.

• 2

  Find a private company or business that handles UV lamp disposal. Many hardware stores will take UV bulbs. Call individual stores to find out their policies. Sites like Earth911 can find recycling facilities in a particular area.

• 3

  Transport lamps carefully to the recycling location. If using an online, mail-in service, follow their directions. This will reduce the risk of breaking the bulb in transit.