Fluorescent Light Bulbs and Lamps
Lamps, also referred to as “universal waste lamps,” are the bulb or tube portion of an electric lighting device. Lamps are specifically designed to produce radiant energy, most often in the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
All fluorescent lamps, including compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, contain mercury and, by law, cannot be disposed in a landfill or incinerator. Other examples:
- Green-tipped lamps.
- High intensity discharge lamps.
- Neon lamps.
- Mercury vapor lamps.
- High pressure sodium lamps.
- Metal halide lamps.
Universal waste lamps/bulbs can be recycled at local transfer stations, hardware stores and household hazardous waste collection events or permanent facilities. Check for your local options.
LED and incandescent light bulbs do not contain mercury and can be put in the regular household trash.
- Fluorescent Lightbulb Recycling & Disposal Options
- Clean-Up Broken Bulbs and Household Mercury Spills
- Fact Sheet HW-28: Universal Waste Lamps: Information for Small Businesses
Questions?
Households and municipalities should contact the NHDES HHW Program via email hhw@des.nh.gov or (603) 271-2047.
Visit our Managing My Waste page to learn about other types of household waste.