Reworld: Mercury Management Resources

Reworld Mercury Disposal offers essential resources for safe mercury handling and environmental protection. According to the EPA, over 1,000 tons of mercury have been used in U.S. products. Therefore, understanding its presence is vital for safe handling and environmental protection.

To address this issue, we developed resources that help communities identify, reduce, and recover mercury. Communities contracted with Reworld (formerly Covanta) can access a wide range of tools to manage and dispose of mercury safely, ensuring a healthier environment for all.

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What is Mercury?

Mercury is the only liquid metal at room temperature. It must always remain in glass containers because it will corrode metal. However, since glass is fragile, it can break easily and lead to significant environmental releases of mercury.

Why is mercury used in devices?

Many devices utilize mercury for its unique properties, such as its ability to expand and contract uniformly with temperature changes. This quality makes mercury an effective component in thermometers and thermostats.

What household devices pose a risk due to mercury?

This risk is particularly relevant for common household devices, such as thermostats, which may contain mercury and require careful handling and disposal.

Common devices with mercury?

Thermostats
Thermometers
Barometers
Certain types of light bulbs (e.g., fluorescent lights)

A Practical Way to Remove Mercury

Universal Waste Sheds serve as dedicated locations where residents, schools, and businesses can safely recycle mercury-containing products. They provide a centralized, clearly labeled space for disposal and serve as a constant reminder for residents to bring in items.

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Collaborating for safer communities.

Reworld Communities refers to a network of contracted towns and municipalities that collaborate with Reworld to develop effective and safe disposal solutions for hazardous materials, such as mercury.

What is Complete Recycling Solutions (CRS)?

Complete Recycling Solutions (CRS) is a Reworld-preferred vendor for recycling elemental mercury and mercury-containing products.

Where does CRS provide pickup services?

CRS offers pickup services at municipalities, including Universal Waste Sheds and schools. They also provide direct pickup of elemental mercury from residents in contracted communities.

How can I arrange for free elemental mercury pickup?

For free pickup of elemental mercury or questions about products containing mercury, please call Tracy at 1-866-277-9797, extension 705.

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Reworld Partners

Regional nonprofit that promotes sustainability and pollution prevention through collaboration among Northeast states on solid waste, toxics use reduction, and climate strategies.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection enforces environmental laws and supports waste reduction, recycling, and climate resilience across the Commonwealth.

A national organization dedicated to pollution prevention and the sound management of household hazardous waste through training, education, and collaboration.

A free program that helps Massachusetts businesses and institutions reduce waste and improve recycling and composting practices.

An environmental education program that empowers K–12 students in Massachusetts to reduce waste and take action for the planet.

A Massachusetts DEP initiative that helps residents recycle smarter through clear, consistent guidance and the Recyclopedia tool.

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