Fluorescent Tubes contain in general 94% Glass, 4% Ferrous and Non ferrous metals, and 2% Phosphor Powder, It is within this phosphor powder that the most hazardous element is contained- Mercury.

The Environment Agency has therefore determined that Fluorescent Tubes are now classified as Hazardous Waste in England and Wales, as Special Waste by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA), and therefore should preferably be recycled or if absolutely necessary, taken to specific landfill sites which can cater for mercury bearing wastes. The actual number of sites in the UK that can cater for such waste is very limited and, given high transportation and disposal costs nowadays, this makes recycling of your Fluorescent Tubes and Lamps the most economical and environmentally friendly option.