Motel 6 Light Battery and Flourescent Light Bulb Recycling Program

Motel 6 recently implemented a new program in which the chain will recycle flourescent light bulbs and batters that are used within the rooms. The program will be rolled out regionally over the next six months and completed by the end of this year. Frankly, I’ve never heard of a business traveler using this particular chain, but it is certainly a good effort.

“We are setting an industry precedent by launching this nationwide recycling program,” said Jim Amorosia, chief operating officer for Motel 6. “Recycling is a highly effective action we can take year-round, and even with the fluorescent light bulbs’ average service life of five years we will still recycle approximately 60,000 fluorescent light bulbs per year.”

In January of this year, Motel 6 started using fluorescent lighting, which consumes 75% less energy than conventional bulbs. The change to fluorescent bulbs and the Motel 6 Battery and Fluorescent Light Bulb Recycling Program are in accords with Accor North America, the parent company of Motel 6, to reduce energy consumption in its properties.

Each Motel 6 property will receive a box designed to collect light bulbs and a container for batteries. Materials will be shipped to each location on an annual basis with instructions on how to return the used containers.

Batteries, light bulbs and electronic equipment typically contain mercury, lead and other heavy metals that are considered hazardous to the environment. By initiating this recycling program, Motel 6’s waste is guaranteed to be recycled in accordance with federal, state and local regulations.

I guess they won’t be using the “We’ll leave the light on for you” slogan anymore…