Old style light bulbs, sometimes called ‘incandescent’, should be disposed of in normal household waste. They cannot be recycled as with regular glass, as the fine wires in glass processing are very difficult to separate out and the cost to recycle these items is prohibitive.
Energy efficient light bulbs save you money and help the environment by using less electricity. At the same time, you are also reducing the quantity of waste, because they don’t need to be replaced as often. And they can be recycled.
Low energy light bulbs, sometimes called compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), can be recycled at your local household waste recycling centres and some stores, although check before heading out. They contain small amounts of mercury, but this is completely safe unlike fluorescent tubes (see below).
Halogen light bulbs should be disposed of in normal household waste. They cannot be recycled with regular glass as the fine wires in them are very difficult to separate out.
Individual LEDs can be disposed of in household waste.
The most important thing is NOT to put fluorescent tubes into your general waste or recycling bin as the mercury content means they are designated as hazardous waste.
Domestic users should take their fluorescent tubes to their local household recycling centre. Many supermarkets offer recycling facilities but not necessarily for fluorescent tubes. Check before you head out.
