Learn More About Recycling
How Does Not Recycling Affect The Environment?
Not recycling has a profound and devastating impact on the environment, exacerbating resource depletion, intensifying pollution, and accelerating climate change. By failing to recycle, we perpetuate a linear “take-make-dispose” model that strains the planet’s finite resources and compromises the health of ecosystems and future generations.
THE Fluorescent BulB Dilemma
Fluorescent light bulbs dilemma. The classic 4 foot fluorescent bulb is considered a hazardous waste because of the mercury contained on the inside. (you may have your own opinion, but it is not based on fact) As of now, all waste management entities, both private and governmental, are required to handle fluorescent bulbs as hazardous waste. In The Plantation, our waste hauler is Waste Connections. In a phone call to them on April 23, 2021 they specifically stated that they are NOT supposed to pick up any known fluorescent bulbs. The drivers are supposed to tag and reject them at the curb. Home owners are NOT supposed to hide them in the garbage cans. These are the regulations and everyone is expected to follow them. We all know what is going on. Home owners ARE hiding them or blatantly putting fluorescent bulbs in curbside cans. Drivers are frustrated because of the continuing violations and have given up on tagging the bulbs or the cans at the curb. ( I completely understand if they are frustrated) This does not change what should be done by all parties involved. Here are three proper methods of disposal. 1. Lowe’s in Leesburg and Clermont will currently accept 4 ft fluorescent bulbs at their stores. (confirmed Oct 15, 2025) Plan ahead and bring them there when you are buying a replacement. Home depot will NOT take them. 2. Batteries Plus, Clermont, will accept fluorescent bulbs at their store for a fee of $1.15 cents per bulb. (Oct 15, 2025) 3. Lake County Solid Waste Drop off site. 13130 County Landfill Road, Tavares, 32778 Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 352-343-3776 Click here for all of the material they accept and any fees. https://tinyurl.com/3ffavsw3 CFL type bulbs: twisty kind These are accepted for recycling at many different locations, even though they still contain mercury. Lowe's (free), Home Depot (free), and Batteries Plus (for a fee)
10 MILLION PlaSTIC BAGS
A MINUTE
Every year, the world consumes over 5 trillion plastic bags, that's nearly 10 million bags every minute. These seemingly convenient items have become one of our environment's most persistent threats, leaving a trail of destruction that spans from our neighborhoods to the deepest ocean trenches. While a plastic bag might serve us for just 15 minutes during our shopping trip, its environmental impact can last for centuries.