Incandescent lighting units generally have life spans of around 750 to 1,000 hours. CFL units however, use less power and have longer shelf lives. While CFL s have a quite higher purchase price, it can save as much as 30 dollars in electricity costs over the lighting unit s life span. Environmental Issues Regarding The Use Of CFLs While compact fluorescent lamps have longer life spans, and save you money on electricity bills, these products contain mercury, which makes their disposal a quite complex one. Cal or notify your local community recycling facility, and find out whether they accept corrugated and flat cardboard. If your local recycling program doesn t accept one or both cardboard types, then take your boxes to the local supermarket, since most supermarkets will take in the boxes. Also determine whether your local recycling facility accepts or recycles waxed cardboard. Pyrolisis- A New Method For Recycling Used Tires While the improper disposal or burning of used car tires has not yet completely disappeared, the disposal and recycling of these items has improved. A new process called pyrolisis, is an eco-friendly technique that uses a special mechanism for heating old tires, in a closed and oxygen-free environment. The old newspapers and used office papers can be sent to a recycling center, while the old magazines can be reused in clinics, nursing homes or libraries. - At your office, encourage the use of electronic mails instead of constantly writing office memos. Also promote the use of copiers or printers which have an option to print or copy on both sides. Recycling During The Pre-Industrial Age During pre-industrial times, there was clear evidence of the collection of scrap metals like bronze, iron and steel in Europe. These scrap items were often melted down and formed into new products. In medieval England, people collected ash and dust from wood and coal fires, and these were used as base material for brick-making. Consumers may return the empty can or bottle to a collection facility, and redeem the deposit, which usually goes from one to five cents. Buy-Back Centers These recycling centers operate in the same way as drop-off centers. However, these pay homeowners or consumers a price that s based on the market value of their items.