Recolight, the recycling compliance body for the lighting industry in the UK, has called on local authorities (LAs) across England to do more to help increase recycling rates of low-energy light bulbs, also known as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs).
Under WEEE regulations, low-energy light bulbs need to be recycled when they reach their end of life, but despite LAs providing collection facilities at household waste recycling centres across the country, little information is provided to residents about the facilities, says Recolight.
An audit undertaken by the compliance firm found that 15 per cent of local authority websites did not provide any information on the facilities, or the importance of recycling CFLs, and only one per cent listed the fact that there are over 800 additional collection facilities available at Sainsbury’s, Robert Dyas and Homebase stores across the country, as well as at a number of other convenient high-street recycling points (run by Recolight).
Recolight’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Suzanne Castine, urged LAs to do more, saying: “It’s essential that low-energy light bulbs are recycled when they reach end of life as they contain a small amount of mercury which could be harmful to the environment if allowed to go to landfill. We’re working with a number of local authorities to increase access to collection facilities including Lambeth, Stroud, Stockton-on-Tees and Hackney councils, amongst others.
“Research has shown that there is still more to be done to ensure consumers understand that CFLs need to be recycled, and local authorities have a crucial role to play in raising awareness and keeping CFLs out of landfill.
“Recolight is keen to work with local authorities to increase access to recycling facilities and improve the information available to consumers. Our ultimate aim is to increase recycling rates for the benefit of all. By working together with local authorities we will be in a better position to do that.”
In a bid to help raise awareness amongst consumers, Recolight has launched a YouTube video, featuring light bulb recycling mascot, Bertie Bulb, to promote awareness of the benefits of CFL recycling.
Further details on CFL recycling can be found on Recolight’s website.
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