Light Bulb Disposal and Recycling Services

Recycling prevents the release of hazardous materials into the environment. Mercury, an extremely toxic heavy metal, is used in fluorescent light bulbs to increase energy efficiency. In addition to mercury, some HID bulbs contain radioactive substances like Krypton-85 and thorium used for quick and easy light ignition.

LEDs on the other hand do not contain mercury; but, they do contain nickel, lead, and trace amounts of arsenic. Light bulbs often break when thrown into a dumpster, trash can or compactor, or when they end up in a landfill or incinerator. This causes the release of hazardous materials into the environment and can create serious public and environmental health concerns.

It’s also important to remember that recycling allows the reuse of the glass, metals and other materials that make up light bulbs. Virtually all components of light bulbs can be recycled.