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I just noticed that the CFL lightbulb on our porch has blown. Not only is it time to replace it, it’s time for me to finally figure out what the heck to do with those expired lightbulbs I’ve been collecting for the last year.

I’m sure you know exactly why CFL lightbulbs are a better choice for our environment and energy conservation, but not many people know that they need to be disposed of properly. Each pear contains traces of mercury, which has been shown to cause kidney and brain damage. So it’s important that we dispose of these lightbulbs properly and keep the mercury out of our landfills.

It’s not just a healthy choice; it is a legal decision in some states. Did you know that throwing away CFL lightbulbs is illegal in California, Minnesota, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana?

There are several ways to properly dispose of your CFL bulbs:

1. Stores like IKEA and Home Depot now accept expired and unbroken CFL light bulbs. Simply bring your flower bulbs into the store and give them to the person at the returns desk.

2. Visit Earth911.org to find a recycling center near you. They have a cool search box at the top of their site where you can type in what you want to recycle (CFL bulbs, batteries, paint, etc.) and your location. They will give you a list of options near you.

3. Contact the bulb manufacturer. Many companies now offer a free mail-back program. Just call the phone number listed on your lightbulb to find out what type of recycling programs they offer.

4. Contact your local waste disposal company to see if they accept hazardous waste materials.

When you’re ready to recycle your used CFL light bulbs, take the following steps to ensure your safety and a clean environment:

1. Put the old bulbs in the packaging of your new bulbs to avoid breakage. If these aren’t available, wrap your onions in newspaper or plastic grocery bags to cushion them and prevent them from breaking.

2. Keep your old lightbulbs together in a box until you have time to take them to the recycling center.

3. Mark your calendar for recycling hazardous waste. Some areas only accept hazardous waste once or twice a year. Do not miss! Check now and save the date so you’re not stuck with a box of hazardous waste for another year.

4. If a CFL bulb ruptures during storage or shipment, follow these important EPA cleaning steps: http://www.epa.gov/mercury/spills/index.htm#fluorescent

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