Mercury Waste
Mercury (photos on this page were provided by Michigan DEQ) can be found in many different products ranging from old thermometers to thermostats. It is included in some electronic switches, older barometers, and fluorescent lights (tubes and compact). It has many uses including curbing the growth of bacteria in paint, processing furs for making hats, and preserving pharmaceuticals. We have been advised not to eat Great Lakes fish too often to avoid the build up of mercury in our bodies. Mercury is a natural element that has useful properties. But, when it is released, it can cause health risks.
From the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, mercury homepage:
"Mercury (symbol Hg), is a naturally occurring element found in air, water and soil. It is a persistent, bioaccumulative toxic pollutant and exists in several different forms which can impact individuals through various routes of exposure. Human and industrial activities, including those that use mercury directly or burn mercury bearing fossil fuels like coal, have increased the amount of mercury deposited in the environment. Once mercury is released into the atmosphere, it can deposit to waterbodies, be converted to methylmercury and then bioaccumulate in fish. .... Elemental mercury is a heavy, silvery-white metal, which is liquid at ordinary temperatures and used in many man-made products (thermometers, fluorescent light bulbs, etc.). At room temperature, it can evaporate to become an invisible, odorless toxic vapor. The hazardous route of exposure is inhalation of mercury vapor which is often associated with the inadequate cleanup of broken mercury-containing products."
Following are resources that may help you manage products containing mercury.
Clean Sweep is a program promoted by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development that funds over 16 sites around Michigan to accept unwanted pesticides and mercury from residents and farms across Michigan.
Michigan Energy Options has a locator on its website for CLF recycling collection sites.
Many local household hazardous waste programs take mercury containing products for proper disposal.
Many retailers and utility companies have begun to take back CFLs (compact fluorescent lights).
Michigan Energy Options has a state-funded program to collect mercury-containing thermostats throughout Michigan. Currently there are 33 collection sites with a goal of reaching 300.
On the Thermostat Recycling Corporation website, you can type in your zip code to find the closest collection site for mercury containing thermostats.
Mercury switches and small fluorescent lights are sometimes found in electronic devices and screens. Many electronics manufacturers provide takeback programs for their devices. Check the manufacturer website or contact the manufacturer for more information.
Other Resources
Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Mercury Homepage and 2012 Mercury Recycling: Michigan Options fact sheet.
U.S. EPA, Mercury Homepage
