Members of Recolight, the UK’s WEEE compliance scheme for the lighting industry, have funded the recycling of 200 million lamps and LEDs since 2007, it was announced yesterday (24 April).
The not-for-profit producer-led compliance scheme is currently made up of 130 producer members, and has saved 800 kilogrammes (kg) of mercury from landfill.
In 2013, Recolight launched a luminaire compliance service, which it claims was responsible for ‘over 40 per cent of the 984 tonnes’ of luminaires recycled as waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) during 2013.
Nigel Harvey, Chief Executive of Recolight, said: “Our members can be very proud that they have achieved this 200 million milestone; it is they that have made it possible and it is a testament to their dedication to improve lighting recycling in the UK. Their role is integral in making sure we meet the UK recycling targets set out in the recast WEEE Directive.”
Recolight Marketing Manager, Suzanne Castine, added: “We are delighted to have reached this momentous landmark, having worked very hard to grow our network over the last 12 months. We provide compliance for all household and non-household lighting in scope of the WEEE Regulations.
“This all ensures it is as simple as possible for both businesses and consumers to recycle their waste lamps, LEDs and luminaires, keeping these waste streams out of landfill.”
Recolight has 2,300 collection points across the UK.
Read more about Recolight.
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How will the government and DMOs address the challenges of including glass in DRS while ensuring a level playing field across the UK?
There's no easy solution to include glass in the DRS while maintaining a level playing field. Potential approaches include a phased introduction of glass, potentially with higher deposits to reflect its logistical challenges. The government and DMOs could incentivise innovation in glass packaging design and subsidise dedicated return points for glass-handling. Exemptions for smaller businesses unable to handle glass might also be necessary. Any successful solution will likely blend several approaches. It must address the differing priorities of devolved administrations, balance environmental benefits with logistical and cost implications, and be supported by robust consumer education campaigns emphasizing the importance of glass recycling.