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Negligible concerns about mercury level in light bulbs
Housing New Zealand encourages tenants to use energy-efficient light bulbs. Not only do these bulbs save tenants money on their power bills, they’re better for the environment, and last almost 10 times longer than incandescent light bulbs.
Energy-efficient light bulbs have a tiny amount of mercury in them — 1.5 (about the size of a grain of salt) to 5 milligrams. This level of mercury is so low it’s not deemed a ‘hazardous waste’ by landfill operators.
In fact, most dental fillings have up to 100 times the mercury contained in Ecobulbs, the energy-efficient light bulb brand that Housing New Zealand recommends.
Also, mercury in Ecobulbs is contained in an ‘amalgam’, so even if the bulb breaks the mercury is likely to remain intact.
Energy Mad, suppliers of Ecobulbs, recommend the following disposal options:
At the end of the bulb’s life — Dispose at your local refuse station so that the mercury can be collected and recycled. Freephone 0800 10 21 31 for locations that collect energy efficient light bulbs for recycling. If possible, don’t put the bulbs in your household rubbish.
Ecobulbs have a 2-year warranty, so any bulbs that fail within that period can be returned to the retailer and exchanged for a new Ecobulb (no receipt required).
If the bulb breaks — Air the house for about 10-15 minutes. Broken bulbs fragments should then be swept into a bag (don’t vacuum) and taken to your local refuse station for recycling. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid being cut.
Energy Mad is working with the Ministry for the Environment and Interwaste, a lighting technology group, to develop a nationwide recycling programme for energy-efficient light bulbs. Freephone 0800 10 21 31 for the location of your nearest Interwaste collection/recycling box.
For more information on mercury in Ecobulbs, visit www.ecobulb.com/nz/Technical_Reports.htm
