Greenville Utilities is committed to protecting our community and environment through our Mercury Minimization Program. This initiative educates residential customers about the safe disposal of products that may contain mercury, helping prevent harmful releases into our water, air, and soil. GUC’s Industrial Pretreatment Program also addresses mercury-related disposals for our industrial customers.
Why Mercury Minimization Matters
Mercury (Hg) is a naturally occurring element used in many household and industrial products. If handled improperly, even small amounts can be hazardous to humans and wildlife. Mercury is bioaccumulative, meaning it builds up in the food chain, with the highest concentrations found in predatory fish and shellfish as methylmercury, the most toxic form.
In North Carolina, largemouth bass and bowfin often show elevated levels, especially in areas with high mercury methylation rates. Exposure to methylmercury can cause serious health effects, so minimizing mercury in our environment is essential.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determine safe mercury limits by evaluating “reference doses” (RfD) and setting actionable advice for seafood consumption.
More information:
Common Sources of mercury in the household:
- Thermometers
- Old thermostats
- Fluorescent lights
- Oil based paints
- Batteries
- Barometers
Disposal of Products that May Contain Mercury
Never dispose of mercury-containing products into drains or regular household trash! These items should be recycled or taken to a household hazardous waste facility.
For Pitt County residents:
Recycle or dispose of mercury-containing products at the Pitt County Recycling Center:
3025 Landfill Rd, Greenville, NC 27834
Phone: (252) 902-3350
Learn more about Pitt County Recycling Center's accepted materials.