Discarding fluorescent tubes
Disposing of fluorescent tubes requires care, as they fall under chemical waste. They contain harmful substances that are hazardous to humans, animals and nature. Improperly disposed of fluorescent tubes can therefore not only cause environmental damage, but also pose a risk to public health.
Both companies and individuals are at Fluorescent lamps responsible to do this in a proper and environmentally friendly way. Below you can read more about how and where to dispose of old and broken fluorescent tubes.
What to do with old fluorescent tubes?
Where to leave old fluorescent tubes? Up front: Fluorescent tubes should never be put in residual waste as they contain hazardous substances. Households (residents) can go to municipal collection points, such as the environmental street. And in some cases, they can also hand in their (fluorescent/savings) lamps for free at supermarkets and DIY stores. However, companies should approach a certified waste collector themselves for the disposal of old fluorescent tubes. This almost always involves costs.
Correct Hand in old fluorescent tubes, results in a cleaner environment and ensures that valuable materials, such as glass and metal, can be reused.
Discarding fluorescent tubes for businesses
Disposing of fluorescent tubes for businesses requires a structured approach. As a company, you have a legal obligation to dispose of chemical waste, including fluorescent tubes, in an environmentally friendly way. You can do this by contacting a recognised collection company, such as Chemisch Afval Nederland B.V.. These companies collect your old fluorescent lamps and specialise in recycling fluorescent tubes.
Many lighting suppliers also offer a return service. When buying new fluorescent tubes, you can often return the old bulbs, making it easy to arrange disposal and recycling in one process. This is not only practical, but also sustainable.
Discarding fluorescent lamps for individuals
TL bulbs can be disposed of for private individuals at various locations, such as waste stations and residents' recycling centres. Municipalities often have special collection points or chemo-containers for small chemical waste, where you can dispose of your old fluorescent tubes free of charge. Some shops and supermarkets now also offer collection options.
As an individual, it is important to handle fluorescent lamps carefully to avoid breakage. This is because broken tubes are more difficult to recycle and can release harmful substances.
Turning in fluorescent tubes at hardware store
Handing in fluorescent tubes at a DIY store is a convenient option for individuals. Many large DIY stores such as Gamma, Karwei, Praxis and Hornbach have special collection bins for light bulbs, old batteries and other small electronic appliances. Check in advance with your local DIY store whether they accept old fluorescent light bulbs.
Turning in fluorescent tubes at supermarket
TL tubes can be handed in at a supermarket in some branches that have collection points for small chemical waste. Well-known supermarket chains such as AH and Jumbo offer this service in certain branches. It is wise to contact your local supermarket beforehand to check whether they accept old fluorescent bulbs and how you can return them.
Frequently asked questions
Is a fluorescent tube chemical waste?
Yes, a fluorescent tube is chemical waste. This is because fluorescent tubes contain substances such as mercury, phosphorus powder and, in some cases, lead, which are harmful to the environment and health. This makes fluorescent tubes fall under the category of small chemical waste (KCA) or small hazardous waste (KGA). This means that they should not be disposed of with ordinary household waste.
It is compulsory to dispose of chemical waste, including fluorescent tubes, at authorised collection points. This prevents harmful substances from entering nature and enables recycling.
Are fluorescent tubes toxic?
Yes, fluorescent tubes are toxic. They contain toxic substances such as mercury, which can be harmful if broken. Mercury fumes can pose a health risk, especially in poorly ventilated areas. In addition, the phosphorus powder inside the tube can have harmful effects on the skin and in the eyes on direct contact.
For this reason, it is important to handle fluorescent tubes carefully and dispose of them properly. If a tube breaks, store the shards safely in a plastic bag and ventilate the room well.
Where can I dispose of fluorescent tubes?
As an individual, you can dispose of fluorescent tubes at authorised collection points such as environmental centres, municipal waste points. These locations are equipped to safely process and recycle chemical waste. They should therefore not be disposed of with residual waste or in the grey bin.
You can also increasingly visit DIY stores and supermarkets. They have special collection bins. It is important to check in advance whether the collection point in your neighbourhood accepts fluorescent tubes. Many municipalities offer online information about collection possibilities in your neighbourhood. Companies should arrange their own external waste company for disposal.
How to dispose of a broken fluorescent tube?
A broken fluorescent tube should be disposed of with extra care because of the risk of mercury fumes. Collect the shards with a sturdy piece of paper or cardboard, place them in a sealable plastic bag and take them to a chemical waste collection point.
Ventilate the room well after cleaning up a broken fluorescent tube and avoid direct contact with the shards or phosphorus powder. By following these steps, you will prevent health risks and contribute to the safe disposal of chemical waste.
Business disposing of old fluorescent bulbs?
Have your old fluorescent lamps collected from your company responsibly. Our specialists will be happy to provide you with a competitive, no-obligation proposal.