Low Energy Light Bulbs
The increasing use of use energy saving light bulbs in the home is significant. Not only do they save on energy bills, but they also reduce waste as they have a longer life, meaning bulbs do not need to be purchased as frequently when compared to using traditional tungsten light bulbs. In fact, the electricity used is around one-quarter of that used by conventional bulbs, and they can last up to twelve times longer.
It is estimated that, by converting to low energy light bulbs, the UK would reduce carbon emissions by up to 5 million tonnes every year.
These bulbs work in a similar way to fluorescent lighting tubes, as they both contain very small quantities of mercury. For this reason, they are classed as hazardous waste, and should be segregated for recycling and treatment.
Our recycling / disposal advice
All of Hertfordshire's Household Waste Recycling Centres have facilities to accept low energy light bulbs which will be delivered to a reprocessor where the hazardous components are treated and the glass and plastics recycled. The bulbs should be placed along with the fluorescent lighting tubes at the HWRC, but ask an operator for assistance on where to place it. Please note that traditional tungsten light bulbs cannot be reycycled at the HWRCs.
Use the search below to find where to recycle / dispose of Low Energy Light Bulbs.