Environmental Protection & Preservation
IKEA Canada Offers Free Recycling of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
A recent poll conducted by Angus Reid
Strategies for IKEA Canada uncovered an overwhelming desire by Canadians to
dispose of their compact fluorescent light energy saving light bulbs (CFLs) in
a responsible manner. While only 41 per cent of those who use CFLs recycle
them today, 98 per cent of respondents who do not recycle their CFLs indicated
they would if there was an easy way. IKEA Canada also recognizes the
importance of proper recycling of CFLs, and has offered its "Free Take Back"
program for CFLs at all 11 locations in Canada since 2001. This program also
offers free recycling of batteries.
While more and more Canadians are realizing the financial and
environmental benefits of using CFLs - they last six to ten times longer than
the average incandescent bulb - there remains a need for education on the
necessity to recycle or dispose of them properly because of the low levels of
Mercury in the bulbs.
"IKEA has always been an innovator and change driver when it comes to the
environment. Our focus is on ensuring that we operate as a responsible company
and that we have strong environmental programs in place that resonate with our
customers' needs," says Kerri Molinaro, President of
IKEA Canada. "As we sell
a wide range of energy saving light bulbs and batteries, it only makes sense
that we wish to minimize the effect on the environment from our business. The
diversion of expired CFLs and batteries away from landfills to recycling
centres for responsible end of life management is an important part of
securing a safe environment for current and future generations."
IKEA Canada works closely with Raw Materials Company (RMC, A division of
International Marine Salvage Inc.) who specializes in battery recycling,
hazardous waste hauling and processing, and have been actively recycling for
more than 25 years. The bulb goes through a separation process into glass,
powder and mercury. Separated mercury goes through a triple distillation which
takes away all contamination. After the triple distillation is finished, the
mercury is re-used.
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