Disposal of Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

Cllr. Eddie Collict says Compact Fluorescent Lights (Low Energy Light Bulbs) should be taken back to the retailer when you buy your replacement light bulb. If they refuse to accept it, take your business elsewhere to somewhere that will. East Sussex County Council says that you can take them back to one of their Household Waste Sites at Cradle Hill Industrial Estate, Seaford; Ham Lane, Lewes or Lewes Road, Newhaven.

Bulbs should be kept intact and not broken because they contain small amounts of mercury. If one should break, vacate the room and ventilate it for at least 15 minutes. Do not use a vacuum cleaner, but clean up using rubber gloves and aim to avoid creating and inhaling airborne dust. Sweep up all particles and glass fragments and place in a plastic bag. Wipe the area with a damp cloth, then add that to the bag and seal it. Mercury is hazardous and the bag should not be disposed of in the bin. Instead, take the bag to your local civic amenity site or household waste recycling centre.