How to Recycle LED Lights
How to Recycle LED LightsThe sustainable benefits of LED lights far exceed their expected lifespan of 50,000+ hours. After use, the energy-efficient units can be recycled like traditional light bulbs. However, unlike incandescent and fluorescent lamps, LEDs do not contain mercury or toxic gaseous substances (small amounts of nickel and copper may exist). As a result, the solid-state lights are suitable for recycling.
Recycling LEDs
There are several ways to recycle LEDs after use. Before diving into the different methods, it is important to point out that the lights should be segregated from household waste during disposal, as the units will be collected separately.
These days, there are many local recycling centers or depots with programs designed specifically for LEDs. In most cases, there is no need to do anything to the lights before passing them over to the recycling facility, as long as they meet the requirements. If there are no LED recycling centers nearby, individuals may opt for online recycling methods, which require the units to be boxed up and shipped out to the processing facility.
Upon receiving LEDs at the recycling depot, the lights are crushed and separated accordingly. Powerful magnets are applied to remove various metals, leaving behind other components, such as glass or plastic. Separators that focus on non-ferrous metals may also be utilized to ensure complete segregation of components.