January 31, 2008

California State University, Fresno’s Community Universal Waste Collection Program (formerly called e-waste collection) has added compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) to the unwanted electronic waste and large household items it will accept at a drop-off collection on Saturday, Feb. 9.

The event will be from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Parking Lot S, located at Bulldog Stadium on Bulldog Lane.

Most items are accepted without cost. They include TVs, computer monitors and components, stereos, office equipment, cell phones and household appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioning units, stoves, washing machines, dryers and microwaves.

The new addition to the list is up to five compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL) per household, accepted without charge.

There are fees for other material: Dry cell batteries (including alkaline and rechargeable), $1.50 per pound; fluorescent light tubes and bulbs, $4.25 per pound (cost for disposal of one small light bulb is approximately $1).

The collection effort began in 2006 as state law went into effect prohibiting disposal of computer components, cell phones, television and computer monitors and other electronic gear through curbside pickup. The effort was recently expanded to assist consumers with disposal of other hazardous materials, such as large appliances, fluorescent light tubes/bulbs and dry cell batteries.

Fresno State was the first university in California registered to collect e-waste, participating in a program with Fresno-based Electronic Recyclers International. The university now also works with Levi’s Iron and Metal and other certified recycling companies.

For questions, call 559.278.7422. For details about the items that will be accepted or not accepted and any requirements and/or applicable fees, visit http://ehs.csufresno.edu/CSUF_Collector.asp.