Some TLC for CFLs

A recent post I read on Treehugger.com, linked me to an interesting story in the Toronto Star about the mercury that’s present in compact fluorescent lightbulbs, or CFLs.

“Seeing the Light on Lamps,” by environmental reporter Catherine Porter, brings you inside the factory of Fluorescent Lamp Recyclers, a fascinating company that Porter describes as the “Microsoft of fluorescent lamp recycling.”

The concerns over the presence of mercury in CFLs spurred the Ayr, Ontario–based Fluorescent Lamp Recyclers to create a safe way to recycle the toxic metal. Click on the Toronto Star infographic below to see how the mercury gets reclaimed.

We recently addressed a reader query on the drawbacks of using CFLs, including the presence of mercury. While the widespread use of CFLs could result in less mercury entering the environment, safe recycling—along with reuse of the reclaimed mercury—will become a necessity as sales of the bulbs increase. The Toronto Star article noted that only 7 percent of CFLs in Canada are recycled.

At least one manufacturer has caught on. Osram Sylvania announced on June 11 that it is now offering two ways for consumers to recycle CFLs and other fluorescent fixtures. (Note: You foot the bill to ship bulbs back to the manufacturer.) “It’s exciting to be the first lighting manufacturer to offer all of our customers a recycling solution,” said Jennifer Dolin, environmental marketing manager for the manufacturer in a release. “With recycling and disposal options available in only a few communities, our . . . options allow consumers and small communities everywhere to recycle their spent lamps easily.”

It’s about time.—Steven H. Saltzman

Essential information: Look for our full report on CFLs in the October 2007 issue of Consumer Reports, on sale this September. In the meanwhile, take our informal survey to let us know if you use CFLs in your home. And visit GreenerChoices.org for the latest news on environmental issues and expert advice on ways to save energy and money every day.

Comments

[Michael Smith]

If you live near an IKEA there is a far easier way to recycle CFL's (and batteries too) - simply bring them to the store. I've used their collection bin many times. It's usually located near the exit, just beyond the checkout area.