According to 40 CFR 261.24 of the Environmental Protection Agency, most fluorescent lamps contain enough mercury to be considered a hazardous waste because of the mercury content.  If placed in the landfill, the mercury becomes an environmental threat by migrating into the air and groundwater supplies.  Benefits to recycling the fluorescent bulbs include saved landfill space, reduced raw material production needs, and preventing toxic material from harming the environment.

Recycling Process:

Mercury is recovered from the fluorescent lamps using a retorting system.  The glass is then crushed and remanufactured and the aluminum endcaps are separated and recycled.

Shipping Method:

1. Lamps are to be shipped in original container or equal. Boxes and drums are available for purchase or rental.

2. Boxes of lamps can be placed on the same pallets that the originals come on.  If they are unavailable, attach two pallets together to accommodate the eight foot lamps.

3. Shrink-wrap the pallets for transport

Bulb Packaging Guidelines

Things to do:

Things NOT to do:

1. Pack the boxes full of lights, they travel better this way
2. Tape the end of the box when full
3. Remove the dividers from the box
4. Arrange the boxes neatly on the pallet
5. Keep lamps dry

1. Stack the boxes over 5' high
2. Tape the lights together
3. Pace articles in the boxes other than lights
4. Place two different lamps lengths into one box