Do we know how to dispose energy efficiency bulbs?

Energy efficiency bulbs are currently widely used in Ghana and most African countries. Over here in the U.K there are no guidelines on the packet of the energy efficiency bulbs we purchase but I happened to be listening to the news this morning and captured the attached. Hope our environmental agency is aware of the health hazard involved with usage of these bulbs.

Please do read on what I found through the Internet.


Introduction


Energy efficient CFL bulbs are hailed as an environmentally friendly alternative that will save money and resources. But not many people know yet that the bulbs contain mercury. Despite being a small amount, it is still very dangerous if leaked into the earth or water. These energy efficient bulbs must be disposed of safely to completely benefit the planet.


Instructions


Difficulty: Moderately Easy


Disposing of Burnt out Bulbs

Steps 1


Step One


Seal the bulb inside two plastic bags, or one thick freezer bag, before disposing in the trash. You should throw the bulbs away only if you have no other options.


2 Step Two


Find the nearest recycling station that handles hazardous materials. Check with your city's municipal office to see if there is a recycling program in your town.


3 Step Three

Contact the recycling station if it is not in your city. They may or may not take your bulbs if your city does allow or participate in such a program.


4 Step Four


Take the bulbs to the recycling station. Ask the people there about the process of giving them your bulbs and follow all their instructions.


5 Step Five


Tell everyone you know who is using energy efficient bulbs how that properly dispose of these bulbs. If a Bulb Breaks


Steps 1

Step One Open a window and leave the room. Let no one inside for at least 15 minutes. 2 Step Two


Collect the fragments and powder with stiff paper or cardboard. Wear disposable rubber gloves. Step Three


Clean the entire area with a wet wipe or wet paper towel. Use Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. tape to collect excess powder.


4 Step Four


Seal all pieces and cleanup materials in a plastic bag. Follow the above procedures on disposal or recycling. Wash your hands completely afterward.


5

Step Five Dispose of the vacuum bag in the same manner the next time you vacuum the area. If it's a canister vacuum, wipe it completely clean


Be safe and we need guidance from Ghana environmental health agency in Accra as to the right disposal of such bulbs currently readily available on all our high streets.

Views expressed by the author(s) do not necessarily reflect those of GhanaHomePage.