Proper Mercury Disposal Helps Us All Stay Healthier

Mercury is a naturally occurring element. It is used in many common items today. Proper disposal of mercury can help us all stay healthier. While mercury is an element, our bodies don't break it down so it can build up and slowly poison humans.

When you replace an old thermostat with a new, more efficient digital one, make sure that the mercury in the old thermostat goes to the proper recycler. When you replace the fluorescent bulbs in your home or office, whether the long tubes or the newer compact versions, make sure that the bulb goes to the proper recycler. Some batteries contain mercury, so put on your glasses and read the fine print before you just throw it in the trash can.

Here in Falmouth, MA, our local recycling center (the dump) has a special place for things that contain hazardous materials. There is a special place for fluorescent bulbs and other things. Proper disposal will help those who come after us. If each of us pays attention on an individual level, the whole of us will benefit.

Some other common items to check for mercury are: thermostats, old switches, old toys, electric organs, pesticides, old cleaning supplies, old laptop computer parts, older car security systems...

Happy listing and selling!