1/21/2009
Step1
NiCad batteries are used in many devices including cell phones and power tools. Because they contain cadmium, a toxic heavy metal, they should never be thrown in the trash because when they are buried in a landfill, eventually as the landfill leaks, which all will eventually do, the cadmium will wash into lakes and rivers killing fish and poisoning humans and wildlife. Step2
Likewise, compact fluorescent bulbs contain a heavy metal, mercury. It is a very small amount of mercury but nevertheless they should not be thrown in the trash for the same reason as NiCads. The amount of mercury contained in one Compact fluorescent is only one tenth of the amount of mercury that would have been released by a coal power plant powering the same number of old fashioned bulbs to CFL's are still a very good green choice. Step3
Now retailers like Home Depot and Lowes have bins at the front of the store set up to receive your old NiCad batteries. Some stores are now accepting CFL's as well so call ahead and make sure.You can also take these items during your communities toxic waste collection drive, along with old paint and insecticides.