New California law will provide free mercury thermostat recycling

A new California law designed to protect public health and reduce taxpayer costs through the collection of mercury thermostats is now effective. The Mercury Thermostat Collection Act of 2008 (AB 2347, Ruskin) increases the number of thermostat collection locations and makes recycling more convenient.

The law requires heating and air conditioning wholesalers with physical locations in California to collect thermostats from the public and contractors. Retailers are also encouraged to participate.

Co-sponsored by the California Product Stewardship Council (CPSC) and Sierra Club California, AB 2347 is California’s first full producer responsibility legislation and makes California only the third state to pass such a law in an effort to protect public health.