The Home Depot Offers CFL Recycling Nationwide!

Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Posted by Emily Lynne Ion

The Home Depot announced an ambitious nation-wide recycling program for used compact fluorescent bulbs, or CFLs, the ultra-efficient light bulbs that are quickly replacing their standard incandescent counterparts. Disposing of CFLs, however, is problematic because they contain a small amount of mercury, a pollutant and neurotoxin. The Home Depot's initiative provides a safe and convenient means for consumers to recycle their old CFLs without worry about health hazards or environmental pollution.

CFLs have become widely popular because they use 75% less energy than regular bulbs, thus saving an average household electrical budget between $12-20 a month. And from an environmental standpoint, CFLs reduce green house gas emissions and promote cleaner manufacturing techniques. Apart from the inconvenience of disposal, CFLs are a win-win product for consumers.

But parents and health advocates have expressed concern that, should a CFL break, potential mercury exposure could be harmful. If mercury vapors are inhaled or absorbed, studies show damage could be done to brain development and neurological function. The Home Depot's CFLs contain between 2.3-3.5 milligrams of mercury, well below the recommended 5mg cap for consumer products. Proper disposal is vital to ensuring that even trace amounts of mercury do not escape into one's home, office, or school. CFLs must be recycled, not just tossed into the trash can.

Previously, consumers had to seek out local waste sites or designated take-back programs, or even send the bulbs back in a special kit via post! Hopefully other retailers and public organizations will follow The Home Depot's example and make recycling CFLs easy, convenient, and second-nature. Doing right by the environment, your energy bill, and your family's health has never been so simple.  To locate your nearest retailer, or for more information about The Home Depot's Eco-Options program, click here. 

Read the entire article in The New York Times

Posted by Mylene  on  08/14  at  09:35 AM

If you are in the South Florida area, a new “Green Boutique” has just opened its doors called “Green Dwellers”.  Everything green for your home baby and even your pets!  Check out their web site!
Have a Green Day!