Hazardous waste regulations designate a category of hazardous wastes called "universal waste" (u-waste). This category includes many items, including fluorescent lamps, cathode ray tubes, instruments that contain mercury, batteries, and others.

Until recently, some universal wastes could be disposed in the trash under some circumstances, however this is no longer the case--all u-wastes are now banned from the trash.

On February 9, 2004, regulations took effect in California that classified all discarded fluorescent lamps as hazardous waste. This includes even low mercury lamps marketed as "TCLP passing" or "TTLC passing." No one in California is allowed to discard their fluorescent lamps and batteries as nonhazardous solid waste (as ordinary trash).

For a more information about the details of most universal wastes, contact the California Department of Toxic Substance Control. Also see the DTSC Web page on universal waste. For information about electronic waste specifically, see the California Integrated Waste Management Board's e-waste Web site, Electronic Product Management, or contact ewaste@calepa.ca.gov.