One of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to save energy is to replace your incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They use up to 75% less energy than incandescent lamps and are safe to use, but they contain a small 
amount of mercury. If fluorescent lamps are disposed of improperly or broken, mercury may be released into the environment, posing a health and environmental hazard. These lamps cannot be disposed of in the garbage or at most transfer stations.
The best way to handle burned out fluorescent bulbs and tubes is to recycle them.
NEW!!! Single family (house) residents can now recycle their used CFL bulbs for free through Waste Management. Please call Waste Management Customer Service at (800) 592-9995 request a cushioned, re-sealabled bag which will be mailed to you. You may also request a CFL recycling bag online by filling out Waste Management's Request Order Form
. Fill the bag up with your burnt out bulbs, seal it, and place it on your recycling cart on your regularly scheduled collection day. Fluorescent tubes are not accepted.
For multifamily residents and for residents with fluorescent tubes, below is a list of local businesses and organizations that will accept fluorescent bulbs and tubes for recycling. Call ahead to confirm acceptance policies, fees, and hours of operation. Place your fluorescent bulbs and tubes in their original packaging or a cardboard box to transport them safely.
If you do break a lamp, try to avoid breathing the vapor that is released. Carefully sweep up the lamp, place in a plastic bag and place in a 5-gallon container with a lid. Dispose at a Household Hazardous Waste collection facility. For more information, call the Household Hazards Line, 206-296-4692 (9am - 4:30pm, Monday - Friday).