Using traditional fluorescent and compact fluorescent bulbs is smart, but they all have a small amount of mercury in them that must be recycled. Fluorescent bulbs last 10 times longer, operate at a cooler temperature, and use less energy while providing the same brightness and color as incandescent bulbs, but these bulbs contain potentially harmful substances such as highly toxic heavy metals like mercury, cadmium, and lead, which if ingested have negative impacts on human health. Improper disposal of bulbs in a landfill or other disposal method creates the risk of mercury finding its way into our lakes, streams, and other watercourses and ultimately into the food chain where it “bioaccumulates” – works its way up the food chain.

Recycling bulbs is easy in St Croix County. Here are a few locations that will accept them, but may charge a fee: