Fluorescent Bulb Disposal

In 1999, Princeton University switched to low-mercury fluorescent bulbs. Some of the existing fluorescent bulbs, as well as many types of high-intensity bulbs, contain enough mercury to qualify as hazardous waste.

Mercury-containing bulbs are considered a Universal Waste when recycled. Princeton University contracts with a bulb recycler, such that the bulbs are demanufactured and all components (glass, mercury, metal) are recycled or reclaimed.

Do not place fluorescent or mercury-containing bulbs in the trash unless it is certain that they are the environmentally rated bulbs. In most cases, the low-mercury bulbs that can be disposed in the trash have green tips on the ends. For all mercury-containing bulbs:

• Building Services collects the bulbs into cardboard shipping containers that are labeled "Universal Waste" and sealed.
• Filled boxes of bulbs are stored by Building Services in a holding area until transported to the contracted recycler.

For questions about the bulb recycling program, contact Al King at 258-1778. For questions about the environmentally hazardous nature of these items, contact Robin Izzo at 258-6259 or James Boehlert at 258-7882.