Monday, August 27, 2007

Fluorescent Light Bulbs Accepted At Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Sites

Broward County residents are being encouraged to dispose of fluorescent light bulbs at one of the three permanent hazardous waste drop-off sites around the County.

Highly-efficient fluorescent light bulbs, more environmentally-friendly than incandescent light bulbs, should not be discarded in regular trash and garbage collections. The fluorescent bulbs and lamps (CFLs) contain mercury, a toxic substance, which could leach into soil and water, poisoning fish and wildlife.

Because incandescent light bulbs are inefficient, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and environmental groups are encouraging the use of fluorescent light bulbs, which can last from four to five years. However, mercury in fluorescent light bulbs can be dangerous, even in small quantities.

Fluorescent light bulbs should be discarded at the following permanent Broward County drop-off locations:

· 2780 N. Powerline Rd., Pompano Beach (north of Copans Rd.): Open every Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

· 5601 W. Hallandale Beach Blvd., West Park (located between Miramar and Pembroke Park): Open every Friday and Saturday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

· 5490 Reese Rd., Davie: Open Saturdays only, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (accepts limited items—no electronics)

In addition to the fluorescent bulbs, the Pompano Beach and West Park hazardous waste drop-off sites accept paint, solvents, motor oil, pesticides, household chemicals, lawn and pool chemicals, mercury thermometers, propane tanks and fire extinguishers. Acceptable used electronics include televisions, computers, monitors, keyboards, printers, fax machines, cell phones and rechargeable batteries.

Each month (except August), Broward County‘s Waste and Recycling Division conducts special household hazardous waste and electronics recycling events. Fluorescent bulbs are accepted at these events. The next event is planned for September 16, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., 6011 Nob Hill Rd. (Public Works Complex), Tamarac.

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