Return fluorescent tubes

Do you want to hand in old fluorescent tubes? Please note that you may not throw them in with the residual waste. Although they are more energy-efficient than traditional light bulbs, they contain harmful substances such as mercury. That is why it is necessary to hand in fluorescent tubes in the correct manner.

Fluorescent tubes are a commonly used light source in both business and private environments. By responsibly disposing of old or broken fluorescent tubes, you contribute to a more sustainable world and prevent environmental damage. Read more about this below Fluorescent lamps disposalWhere can you go as a company and as a private individual and what are the rules?

return fluorescent tubes

Where can you hand in old fluorescent tubes?

There are various ways and locations to hand in old fluorescent tubes. It depends on your situation: for example, do you want to throw away an old fluorescent tube as a household or do you have a box full of defective lamps as a company? For business users, there are collection points and specialized waste processing companies available, such as Chemisch Afval Nederland. Private individuals can often hand in their fluorescent tubes at local recycling points, DIY stores and even supermarkets.

It is important to check as a private individual whether the collection point in your area accepts old fluorescent tubes. And whether you have to pay for this. By handing them in at recognized points, you can be sure that they are recycled in a responsible way.

Returning fluorescent tubes for business purposes

Business TL tubes are an obligation that falls under the rules of waste management. Companies have a responsibility to dispose of their waste in an environmentally friendly way. This also applies to Throw away fluorescent tubes. You need to hire a specialized chemical waste collection company for this. They will collect the fluorescent tubes from you or deliver special KGA boxes that you can place at your business location.

In some cases, companies work with suppliers who take back the old ones when delivering new fluorescent tubes. This is an effective and environmentally friendly way to completely recycle the waste stream.

Why is a fluorescent tube considered chemical waste?

A fluorescent tube is classified as chemical waste due to the presence of the following harmful substances:

  • Mercury
  • Phosphorus powder
  • Lead

These substances can cause damage to the environment and health if disposed of incorrectly. Mercury, for example, is a toxic metal that, if broken, ends up in the air or soil and causes long-term environmental damage.

Both individuals and companies are required to hand in fluorescent tubes at recognised collection points for chemical and hazardous waste. Here they are processed safely, harmful substances are correctly disposed of and materials such as glass and metal are recycled. Responsible disposal prevents environmental damage and contributes to sustainable raw material management.

Returning fluorescent tubes to private individuals

Handing in fluorescent tubes as a private individual is easier than you might think. Many municipalities have recycling centers or waste disposal stations where you can hand in small amounts of household and hazardous waste, including fluorescent tubes. Or you can use a chemo truck that drives around your neighborhood.

In addition, you can also return fluorescent tubes to various shops and supermarkets. The advantage of this is that you can combine them with your daily groceries or other purchases. This makes disposal a lot easier.

Return fluorescent tubes to Gamma and Karwei

Handing in TL tubes at Gamma and Karwei is a practical option for private individuals. Other large DIY stores, such as Praxis and Hornbach, also have collection bins where you can leave old lighting. These bins are clearly marked and easy to find at the entrance or customer service.

The advantage of handing in at a hardware store is that these points often also sell new fluorescent tubes. This makes it possible to combine old and new lighting in one visit. Please note that not all hardware stores offer this service and that it concerns small quantities; check this in advance on their website.

Return fluorescent tubes to AH and Jumbo

Returning fluorescent tubes to AH and Jumbo is possible at branches that have collection bins for small chemical waste or electronics. Although these supermarkets are known for their wide range, some branches also offer a solution for the responsible disposal of old lighting and batteries, for example.

It is advisable to contact your local branch, as not all supermarkets offer the same services. If they accept fluorescent tubes, you can easily combine this with your weekly shopping, saving time and effort.

Responsible return of broken fluorescent lamps

Responsible disposal of old and broken TL lamps is crucial because of the harmful substances they contain. When broken, these components can be released in small quantities and that is harmful to your health and the environment.

If a fluorescent tube is broken, you should be extra careful when handling it. Use a sturdy piece of cardboard or paper to catch the shards and place everything in a sealed plastic bag. Then take it to an authorized collection point. In this way, you contribute to a cleaner and safer living environment.

Collection of old fluorescent tubes for companies

Contact us to have your old TL tubes collected at your business location. Our specialists will be happy to make you a sharp and non-binding offer.