Managing mercury risks from energy-saving light bulbs - News

Managing mercury risks from energy-saving light bulbs - News

Managing mercury risks from energy-saving light bulbs

Source: European Commission, Environment DG Published Nov. 13, 2008 Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) use up to two-thirds less energy than standard incandescent bulbs. But CFLs contain mercury, a neurotoxin that can cause serious health problems. A global study calls for a strategic policy to address the risks associated with mercury emissions from CFLs. Exposure to high levels of mercury can permanently damage the brain, kidneys and developing foetus. Combustion of coal for electric power generation is the largest source of atmospheric mercury pollution. Switching from standard incandescent bulbs to energy-saving CFLs can reduce energy demand from such power plants and consequently lead to a reduction in mercury emissions. However, CFLs themselves contain small amounts of mercury that can be emitted when they break. CFLs are typically disposed of along with general household waste. However, if they are not recycled properly, up to 25 per cent of the mercury contained in CFLs could be released into the atmosphere. This can occur via three routes: bulb breakage during transport, vaporisation during incineration and evaporation from landfills. A proposed EU-wide ban1 on incandescent light bulbs in 2010 would increase the use of CFLs and add urgency to the need to encourage appropriate recycling of these bulbs. A study of over 130 countries revealed that the rate of recycling of CFLs is low in Mexico, South Africa, Canada and Japan, where less than 10 per cent are recycled. In the US, 20 per cent of CFLs are recycled. Taiwan has the highest rates of CFL recycling, with 87 per cent recycled thanks to a compulsory programme. For the EU, the study reports a mercury distribution factor, stating that 9.2 per cent of mercury contained in CFLs is eventually emitted to the atmosphere. In countries that derive a large percentage of their electricity from coal, such as the US, replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs would reduce overall mercury emissions, but only if recycling practices are enforced. To reduce the negative impact of mercury on human health, a total policy framework should restrict the amount of mercury in CFLs and enforce recycling as well as limiting the use of incandescent bulbs. Existing EU legislation restricts the amount of mercury in CFLs to 5mg per bulb2. The proposed EU ban on incandescent light bulbs is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 30 million tonnes a year. Australia, Cuba and the Philippines have all also announced bans in 2010 and the US plans to phase out incandescent bulb use between 2012-2014. As this will lead to an increased demand for CFLs, policymakers need to work with manufacturers to develop new CFL technologies and reduce the need for mercury use.

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