NYC fined $50K for improper bulb disposal
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Here's a news item that should serve as a wakeup call to those who aren't recycling their lamps or other electronic waste...
From WasteRecyclingNews.com:
"The U.S. EPA has reached an agreement with New York City requiring it to pay $50,000 in penalties and launch a comprehensive program to properly manage old light bulbs and computer monitors.
EPA inspectors report they found improper disposal of mercury-containing light bulbs as well as used computer monitors containing lead at several buildings managed by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services. The city has agreed to come into compliance and to spend at least $300,000 on a multi-facility, self-audit program to assess compliance with hazardous waste management requirements."
Whoa. $50,000 in penalties...pretty steep, and perhaps even worse is the negative PR that comes along with it. I'd recommend not letting your facility join the ranks of organizations like NYC, Macy's, and others who have learned the hard way that they need to recycle their bulbs and e-waste. Not only is proper bulb and e-waste disposal the right thing to do for the environment, it could save your organization major money and embarrassment in the long run.
Click here for more info on bulb disposal regulations in your state. Also, this EPA webpage has some good info on electronics disposal regulations.
posted by Aaron at
4:01 PM
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