Vermonters will be able to buy only certain kinds of light bulbs soon.
The state passed legislation this past May that bans the sale of fluorescent light bulbs and tubes that contain mercury. Ip65 Waterproof Light
The highly toxic heavy metal gets released into the environment when bulbs are discarded. The contamination affects fish and wildlife and has led to state and federal fish advisories against consuming certain types of freshwater and marine fish. In humans, increased exposure can create nervous system, kidney and liver damage as well as impaired development in children, according to the Department of Environmental Conservation.
The state has considered banning mercury-containing bulbs for a number of years but held off until alternative LED bulbs were readily available and similarly priced.
In most cases, screw-based LED bulbs can be used in fixtures that formerly contained CFLs. Prices are comparable, and the LED bulbs are more efficient and last longer which can provide savings on electrical bills.
Some tubes can be swapped for TLED lights. However, an LED retrofit kit or a fixture replacement could be required.
As you start to swap out your bulbs, you can take advantage of rebates and savings offered through Efficiency Vermont. See the list of what's available at https://www.efficiencyvermont.com/rebates.
When throwing out light bulbs, look for the symbol hg with a circle around it. This is the sign the bulb contains mercury. These are banned from landfills, however you can recycle them for free.
They are considered hazardous household materials and are accepted at specific collection sites across the state. These can be found at www.vtrecycles.com or by entering your zip code at www.lamprecycle.org. Some hardware stores may even take them.
Surface Mount Adjustable Downlight Contact April Barton at abarton@freepressmedia.com or 802-660-1854. Follow her on Twitter @aprildbarton.