Sure, CFL bulbs contain a few different chemicals, including mercury – but they’re put to good use at the end of the bulb’s lifespan.
When it comes to recycling CFL (compact fluorescent) bulbs, first check with your local council. Many councils run a Hazmobile, or equivalent services for recycling fluorescent bulbs.
Alternatively, you can recycle them through Interwaste by using one of their boxes. Interwaste has a partnership with CMA Eco Cycle in order to provide New Zealand with the only zero-to-landfill option for the disposal of fluorescent lighting.
In order to recycle the tubes, they are first crushed, the elements are separated, and mercury is recovered. All products are then distilled and recycled into byproducts, including:
- Aluminium from tube ends is recycled into cast products such as ingots used for foundry applications.
- Glass from lamps is separated and recycled into the glass wool used to insulate homes.
- Mercury is distilled from separated powders and then re-used in the manufacture of dental amalgam.
- Phosphor powder from the tubes is used for the manufacture of fertiliser products and sold to New Zealand and Australian agriculture industries.
