On Earth Day, I happened to be staying at the Venetian in Las Vegas (ironic, I know). Maintenance folks were changing out all the lights in the hallways with CFL light bulbs. (It’s a step, but there are so many more to go. For example, you could not find a place to recycle the prolific water bottles handed out at the pool.)

It occurred to me that this enthusiasm for changing out light bulbs is good, but are we creating an even bigger problem down the line. All these “good” CFL light bulbs save energy and reduce carbon emissions that come from producing energy. They also last a long time, but not forever. When they do go, remember, the bulbs contain mercury. You can’t throw them away. Take them to some place, like Home Depot, so they can be disposed properly.

According to Eco Village Green, there are nine other items that should never go into the landfill, including: lithium-ion batteries (rechargeable batteries); electronics equipment (like mobile phones, stereos, speakers, TV’s); car fluids; and paints.

Best Buy takes lithium-ion batteries and most electronics equipment. Cell phone dealers take mobile phones. As for car fluids and paints, you have to go to your local garbage company or local government.

All these things we all buy and use everyday. Then, there are things that we can avoid buying so they can’t escape into the waterways and oceans and linger there forever, like plastic bags, stryofoam cups, and plastic take out containers. When you need to use “disposables,” buy compostable, biodegradable alternatives.