EPA has designated some widely-generated hazardous wastes—including certain batteries, pesticides, mercury-containing equipment, and lamps— as ‘universal wastes’. Human activities are responsible for an increase in the global distribution of mercury, through operation of coal-fired power plants, combustion of other fossil fuels, and disposal of mercury-containing products, including fluorescent lamps.

When considering disposal alternatives for electronics and other hazardous waste, security of data is of the utmost importance for all sites and compliance with disposal regulations is required. Discuss security requirements for recycling with your FM prior to undertaking any disposal activities.

Figure 3: Percentage of Americans adults who own the following devices

Image Source: Pew Research Center

Standard fluorescent lamps are used for 90% of lighted commercial floor space in the United States.¹¹ These and other mercury-containing lamps used in buildings include compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and high-intensity discharge (HID) sources. The small yet significant amount of mercury in these lamps allows for high energy efficiency and long life, compared to other lighting options. As there is no known method for completely eliminating mercury in fluorescent lights while maintaining energy efficiency, sites should aim to purchase lower mercury content lamps, as defined by the EPA and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), or inverter LED light sources where viable.

Another source of toxins commonly found in buildings comes from batteries, which contain heavy metals, such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and nickel.

If disposed of improperly, these metals can lead to pollution of land and waterways. Battery recycling programs are gaining understanding and participation across the globe. Posts can support this important best practice.

Typical types of batteries include:

• Alkaline and carbon zinc (9-volt (V), D, C, AA, and AAA). Alkaline batteries are everyday household batteries used in flashlights, remote controls, and other appliances.
• Silver-oxide and zinc-air (button). These are often used in small electrical devices such as calculators or watches.
• Lithium (9-V, C, AA, coin, button, and rechargeable). These are appropriate for small electronics, such as smoke detectors or clocks.

Computers are made up of more than 1,000 different materials, many of which are highly harmful, such as toxic metals, biologically active materials, acids, plastic, plastic additives, and, in some cases, lead. However, many parts of computers, cell phones, and other electronic equipment are recyclable, and consist of rare, valuable, and expensive materials.

There are several activities that can be undertaken as part of establishing a hazardous waste collection and recycling program:

• Confirm data security requirements with your IMO and RSO.
• Determine whether battery or lamp recycling programs are available through a local utility or qualified private provider.
• Provide clearly marked battery collection bins and lamp storage areas.
• Investigate and implement opportunities for recycling or local reuse programs for computers, printers, cell phones, and other electronic equipment.