Disposing of fluorescent light bulbs in the trash has been prohibited in Maine since 2007, but the state has now taken the next logical step, requiring manufacturers to establish recycling programs for the bulbs.

Maine is the first in the nation to take this step, but others are likely to follow with measures to deal with the popular compact fluorescent light bulbs that are cutting energy use in homes and businesses. As this business grows, it makes sense to require manufacturers to stay ahead of disposal problems.

The bulbs use up to 75 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs, but compact fluorescent lights contain small amounts of mercury. Despite the state law prohibiting disposal, only a small number of bulbs are recycled, and legislators saw the need for a reliable and convenient recycling program.

The state currently encourages voluntary recycling among consumers, and recycling of commercial fluorescent lighting is required here. Now a mandatory, manufacturer-financed recycling programs for compact fluorescent bulbs must be in place in Maine by January, 2011. In the meantime, consumers should resist the temptation to toss used bulbs in the trash.

Mercury is a neurotoxin. Although the amount in a fluorescent bulb is not considered dangerous, it can be inhaled and absorbed through the skin and accumulates in human and animal tissues. As an unusually long-lasting air pollutant, it can be carried long distances, and mercury from Midwest smokestacks has accumulated to levels in Maine freshwater fishes that make them unsafe for young children and pregnant women to eat.

Manufacturers opposed the new law, arguing that recycling would make the bulbs more expensive. They also said recycling should be approached on a national basis rather than state-by-state. In fact, recycling proposals are moving forward in other states, and manufacturers might find it in their own self-interest to begin work at once on national recycling systems in collaboration with major retailers.

As inefficient incandescent bulbs are phased out, use of compact fluorescent bulbs will soar. By planning ahead for this surge, Maine lawmakers have assured that disposal should not be a problem in Maine.

— Questions? Comments? Contact Kristen Schulze Muszynski or Nick Cowenhoven at 282-1535 or kristenm@journaltribune.com or nickc@journaltribune.com.