Recycle Mercury and Batteries for Safety
A number of common consumer products contain mercury, a toxic substance that can be harmful to human health and the environment. Access Energy Cooperative encourages users of mercury-containing products to become familiar with and follow requirements of local laws for safe disposal and recycling.
THERMOSTATS contain mercury switches that provide for temperature control. They are securely housed and exposure is extremely low; however they should be disposed of properly. Local electrical distributors or contractors may participate in the Thermostat Recycling Corporation (TRC) and can help you recycle your mercury thermostat.
RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES. The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) provides recycling services for used portable, rechargeable batteries and old cell phones. Visit www.RBRC.org to find local participating retailers and other sites that accept rechargeable batteries for recycling.
ORDINARY BATTERIES do not contain hazardous materials that require recycling or special disposal. It is permissible in all states, with the exception of California, to dispose of them in household trash.
MERCURY-CONTAINING LIGHT BULBS, including compact fluorescent and several types of high-intensity discharge lamps, contain mercury. They are highly efficient but should be managed appropriately and disposed of in accordance with local laws. You can visit www.earth911.org to view where you can take your used or broken CFLs to recycle them or contact your local waste facility. If recycling is not available, you can put your used or broke CFL in two sealed plastic bags and put it in the trash.
Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International