[Lekooks] Recycling Compact Fluorescent Lamps and batteries

[Gerald Flakas]

I used to collect failed compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and household fluorescent tubes for recycling for LCUUC members and friends a few years ago, as part of a Green Sanctuary program to encourage people to save energy and protect the environment by switching over to these high efficiency lamps in place of conventional lighting. I discontinued these collections a couple years ago, but still find that people are bringing them and leaving them off in the Social Hall, expecting me to recycle them for them. PLEASE DO NOT BRING FAILED CFLS AND OTHER FLUORESCENT TUBES AND BATTERIES TO LCUUC FOR RECYCLING. 


Failed fluorescent lamps should be recycled rather than thrown in the trash because they contain mercury, which is a hazardous material.  CFLs are accepted at many stores e.g. Home Depot,True Value (some), Sears, Target, Lowes and Batteries and Bulbs Plus. Please call your selectedstore ahead to confirm that they still accept this product. As for replacing CFLs. I recommend light emitting diodes (LEDs). LEDs are much more efficient that fluorescent, last longer, and contain no hazardous material. It won't be long before nearly all lighting will be LEDs as they continue to get better and cheaper.


As for batteries, alkaline and lithium batteries are not accepted by the County for recycling, and should be disposed of in the trash. NiCd and Lead-acid batteries are considered hazardous waste, but the County no longer accepts them. They should be taken to Batteries and Bulbs Plus for recycling.


Thank you,


Gerry Flakas



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