What to do with light bulbs?
Energy efficient light bulbs are a type of fluorescent lamp and can be recycled at local recycling centres. Older style 'incandescent' bulbs aren't recyclable and should be thrown away in your rubbish bin.
Household recycling collection
Not collected with household recycling.
Please don't be tempted to recycle your old light bulbs with your glass bottles and jars. They are made from a different type of glass and also contain metal parts.
Household waste recycling centre (HWRC)
Low energy light bulbs can be recycled at most larger recycling centres - check the recycling locator to find your nearest.
Old style incandescent bulbs are NOT recyclable. Throw them away in your waste bin.
Other recycling collections
Collection points are also available in some stores - so rather than make a special trip to the tip, you can now dispose of your old low energy bulbs whilst you're shopping.
Check the store locator to find your nearest collection point. Other stores that accept low energy light bulbs include Ikea and some branches of Tesco (that have special recycling units in-store).
About energy efficient light bulbs
These 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 as ordinary bulbs.
Recycling is constantly evolving and changing so check back for updates or try our recycling locator to find out what you can recycle at home and where you can recycle or pass on unwanted items in your local area.
