In 2008, the Product Stewardship Institute, Inc. (PSI) and Women’s Voices for the Earth (WVE) partnered to design, implement, and evaluate a pilot collection program for spent fluorescent lights and mercury thermostats at Ace Hardware retail locations throughout Montana, South Dakota, and Utah.  From the results of this pilot, PSI and WVE developed a "How To" guide that retailers, state agencies, and utilities can use to replicate the program nationwide. Click here to download the guide.

Why are Collection Programs Important?

In recent years, the use of fluorescent lighting has increased dramatically, driven by rising energy costs and the energy conservation benefits of fluorescents. However, fluorescent lamps, as well as thermostats, contain mercury, a harmful neurotoxin that should not be disposed of in landfills or incinerators. Since these products can release mercury into the environment, they should be managed responsibly. Retail collection programs provide an opportunity for customers to responsibly recycle their lamps and thermostats.

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Additional Resources

What to Do if a Fluorescent Light Bulb Breaks

To find a collection program near you visit: http://earth911.com/