BATTERIES, LIGHT BULBS AND ELECTRONIC WASTE
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Batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, radios and computer equipment may not be disposed of in the trash. This type of waste is called Universal Waste.
Universal Waste
Universal wastes are hazardous wastes that are generated by a wide variety of people that contain mercury, lead, cadmium, copper and other substances hazardous to human and environmental health. In general, universal waste may not be discarded in solid waste landfills. Examples of these wastes are batteries, fluorescent tubes, and some electronic devices. The best way to reduce the harmful effects of the wastes on human health and the environment is to reduce consumption. The next best thing is to make sure you DON’T throw them in the trash!
- Universal Waste Fact Sheet (Cal/EPA)
- Handling Universal Waste (SF HMUPA)
- Electronic Hazardous Waste (Cal/EPA)
E-Waste
Electronic hazardous wastes (e-wastes) are different from industrially generated hazardous wastes in that almost every individual, institution and business generates them. Proper management and recycling of e-waste poses lower risks than managing many industrial hazardous waste
Electronic items that are considered to be hazardous include, but not limited to
- Televisions and computer monitors that contain cathode ray tubes (CRT)
- LCD desktop monitors;
- laptop computers with LCD displays;
- LCD televisions; and
- plasma televisions.
- portable DVD players with LCD screens
Cal/EPA Statement: Abandonment of e-waste constitutes illegal disposal
of hazardous waste and will be prosecuted.
Campus Universal Waste Disposal Guidelines
For disposal of small quantities of standard batteries, departments may start a small temporary collection area in the office or stockroom and then send them to the SFSU Recycling Resource Center. Check out the Campus Recycling Guide to find the most current disposal procedures for batteries, fluorescent light tubes, electronic waste, cardboard, etc.
The Student Bookstore has a small battery recycling bin near the new battery display area where you can put your used consumer electronics batteries.
For assistance with large quantities, big equipment or large industrial batteries, contact the Recycling Resource Center directly.
Recycling Resource Center
Phone:
(415) 405-3868
Fax:
(415) 338-6872
Address:
Recycling Resource Center
Facilities & Service Enterprises
1600 Holloway Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94132
