A simple two sided, one sheet handout will be posted to a new EPA web page about demolition soon.
It was sent to the Region 5 HUD office for sharing with communities involved in demolishing residential buildings. Although aimed primarily at residential structures, this could also apply to commercial facilities. Incase the discussion on the gas meters and mercury regulators isn’t clear, local utilities will remove and dispose of those for free if given enough notice.
The most common mercury item listed is the thermostat. Michigan has a free collection and recycling program managed by Michigan Energy Options at www.michiganenergyoptions.org . This program provides free collection buckets to sites across the state.
In addition, the State of Michigan provides free mercury disposal for any small mercury sources, such as municipalities, any residential demolition project regardless of size, small businesses, and residents. But the locations can be limited so recycling needs to be determined in advance. Recycling and disposal options are listed on the DEQ website www.michigan.gov/mercuryp2 under “Where to take Mercury.” The most common recycling options are sites called Clean Sweep, funded in partnership with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Some household hazardous sites also collect mercury. Addtional options may be available, contact Maggie Fields, 517-335-6250 for more information.
Source: DEQ
