How to Recycle Fluorescent Ballasts and Lamps

Many modern fluorescent bulbs contain a small amount of mercury and lead which can pose environmental and personal health risks if not disposed of safely. Most bulbs made before 1979 used chemicals called polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCB, which are not safe for the environment. These bulbs must be disposed of at a federally-approved recycling facility. You can recycle the lamps and fluorescent ballasts by contacting a national recycler close to your area, and following their specific guidelines.

Things You'll Need

• Packaging materials

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Instructions

• 1

  Visit lamprecycle.org or the EPA.gov Web site for a list of potential recyclers in your area. Another option is to visit Earth911.com and enter your zip code for a list of recycling facilities in your area.

• 2

  Click on your location on the provided map, or else navigate to your state under the recycling company list. Each state provides different companies and methods for clean recycling.

• 3

  Choose the city, county or neighborhood you live in for a list of bulb/lamp pick-up or drop-off zones.

• 4

  Prepare your fluorescent ballasts and lamps for drop-off. They will need to be kept separate from other materials in their own container or box. Be sure they are not leaking and will not break during transit to the drop-off zone.

• 5

  Call a local recycler from the list provided above and schedule a time to drop off your lamps. Some states offer scheduled pick-up options at designated locations around your area while some will pick up from your house. Be sure to explain the materials you are recycling so that the lamps do not get sent to the wrong recycling facility.

• 6

  Call a private mail-in recycling company if you are not able to find a recycling company in your neighborhood. Private recyclers will send you marked disposal boxes. Pack your lamps and ballasts in these ship the box back. You will need a check, credit or debit card to prepay for shipping.