Why do I need to be careful how I dispose of my Energy Saving Light bulbs and Fluorescent tubes?

Energy Saving Light bulbs function in much the same way as a fluorescent tube. They contain electronic components and a tiny amount of mercury (each just enough to cover the tip of a ballpoint pen). This mercury allows them to deliver their substantial energy saving benefits. It is therefore much better not to put these lamps in the normal household waste. A more environmentally friendly and responsible way of  disposal is to ensure that the lamps are recycled at the end of their life. You should therefore separate them from your normal household waste.  They can be disposed of at your local authority Household Waste Recycling Centre in the separate containers that they have available for these lamps. These containers are then returned to specialist companies for recycling.

New Energy Saving Light bulbs and Fluorescent tubes sold today now carry the following informative mark as a reminder that they should be separately recycled:

How should I deal with a broken Energy Saving Light bulb or Fluorescent tube?

• Although the accidental breakage of a single light bulb is very unlikely to cause any health problems, it is good practice to minimise any unnecessary exposure to mercury, as well as risk of cuts from glass fragments.
• Fetch clean up materials as soon as possible, ventilating the room for about 15 minutes.
• Do not use a vacuum cleaner, but clean up using rubber gloves and aim to avoid creating and inhaling airborne dust.
• The most effective method is to gently sweep up all particles and glass fragments and place them in a sealable container or plastic bag. Wipe the area with a damp cloth, then add that to the bag and seal it.
• Mercury is hazardous and the bag should not be disposed of in the bin. All local councils have an obligation to make arrangements for the disposal of Energy Saving Light bulbs and Fluorescent tubes and similar lamps at a Civic Amenity site or Household Waste Recycling Centre.

Producer's and Retailer's responsibilities - What the Regulations say

From 1st July 2007, waste Energy Saving Light bulbs and Fluorescent lamps have been subject to the requirements of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations. Those who manufacture and sell energy efficient bulbs provide information to the public about how to deal with waste bulbs and other WEEE. Some retailers take them back in store, however, most retailers have provided funding support to local authority Household Waste Recycling Centres.From this point, producers fund the transport, treatment and recycling, where most of the mercury can be recovered. This process is managed by Recolight on their behalf.

Further Links

DEFRA Website: Energy Saving Light Bulbs
The European Lamp Industry’s Strategy for Domestic Lighting (PDF)
Search for your nearest Designated Collection Facility by postcode