Fluorescent tube recycling
Generally, fluorescent tubes contain:
- 94% Glass
- 4% Ferrous and Non ferrous Metals
- 2% Phosphor Powder
It is within the phosphor powder that the most hazardous element is contained - mercury.
The Environment Agency has therefore determined that fluorescent tubes are now classified as Hazardous Waste in England and Wales. As a result, only specialist recyclers are able to recycle fluorescent tubes and even fewer can obtain the Mercury locked within them. The actual number of sites in the UK that can cater for such waste is very limited and Recycling Lives aims to ensure that our recycling of your fluorescent tubes and lamps is the most economical and environmentally friendly option. Many companies lay claim to being able to recycle fluorescent tubes but most operate very basic recycling or onsite crushing.
Recycling Lives offers true closed loop recycling utilising unique mercury recycling in-house distillation process. This process involves separating the individual components of Fluorescent tubes and other discharge lamps and recovering the mercury for re-use in a variety of industries. The recycled mercury is supplied to two major Lamp Manufacturers in the UK where it is used in the production of new lamps thereby closing the loop.
Apart from the environmental aspects of recycling fluorescent tubes and lamps, it is also very important to the health and safety of employees. For example, an employee attempting to dispose of a fluorescent tube in a skip would not only be condemning the whole skip as Hazardous Waste (which would incur high costs for its safe disposal), but he or she would also be exposed to the potential dangers of broken glass and the inhalation of small amounts of toxic materials in the form of dust and vapour.
Why choose us?
Recycling Lives fluorescent tube recycling services ensures that your disposal of this hazardous waste is both safe and legal. We have developed a specialised package which is tailored to the needs of any organisation requiring the safe and cost effective disposal of fluorescent tubes.
To download our brochure click here.
Recycling Lives Quick Links
Latest News
