Disposing of compact fluorescent light globes

Whilst CFLs are safe and easy to use, unlike incandescent light globes they contain a small amount of mercury. Whilst this does not make them dangerous, it is wise and environmentally responsible to take a few precautions when disposing of your old or broken globes.

Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) use 80% less energy than a standard incandescent light globe and last 4-5 times as long. This means that not only will you be reducing the amount of energy you use, and hence your greenhouse gas emissions, you'll also be paying less on your electricity bills.

Common Questions

1. How much mercury do CFLs contain?
CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing - an average of 5 milligrams (roughly equivalent to the tip of a ball-point pen). Mercury is an essential, irreplaceable element in CFLs and is what allows the bulb to be an efficient light source. By comparison, older home thermometers contain 500 milligrams of mercury and many manual thermostats contain up to 3000 milligrams.

2. Are there any safety issues with using a CFL?
CFLs are safe to use in your home. No mercury is released when the bulbs are in use and they pose no danger to you or your family when used properly. However, CFLs are made of glass tubing and can break if dropped or roughly handled. Be careful when removing the lamp from its packaging, installing it, or replacing it. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base, and never forcefully twist the CFL into a light socket by its tubes. Used CFLs should be disposed of properly.

3. What do I do if my CFL breaks?
The trace amounts of mercury from a broken CFL is not likely to be dangerous, however it is still wise to take some precautions. If your CFL breaks don't touch any fragments and open your windows to let in some fresh air. Sweep up the fragments using stiff paper and use a disposable cloth or paper towel to wipe up any remaining fragments. Place all the bits in a sealed plastic bag and put in the rubbish bin or if possible take to your local hazardous waste collection facility. Wash your hands after you are finished.

4. How do I dispose of my CFL when it no longer works?
Like paint, batteries, and thermostats, CFLs should be disposed of properly. Do not throw CFLs away in your household garbage if better disposal options exist. See below for details of where to go. If this is not possible place the CFL in a plastic bag and seal it before putting it in the trash. Never send a CFL to an incinerator.

5. Where do I take used CFLs in Melbourne?
Fluorescent tubes can be dropped off at a Detox Your Home Permanent Drop-off Facility for household chemicals.
Address: Darebin Resource Recovery Centre, Kurnai Avenue, Reservoir (off Henty Street, Melway Ref 18 C6).

Alternatively, you can also take fluorescent tubes to a household chemical collection day provided through Council. IKEA stores also take back used CFLs, and other retailers are currently exploring take back programs. Businesses and groups can also organise to have them collected by recycling contractors.

A couple of businesses who provide prepaid boxes for tubes/ globes and can arrange delivery/ pick up to almost anywhere in Australia are:

ARA: 1300 FLUORO (1300 358 676)
Lamp Recyclers: www.lamprecyclers.com.au