“Poor CFL Recycling” also delayed Canada Ban

 

As previously posted,
Canada has federally delayed any implementation of energy efficiency regulations on light bulbs.

Subsequently, government reasons for the delay came to the fore...

In their words
"Delaying the date for compliance with Canada’s efficiency standards for general service lighting for 100/75/60/40W light bulbs (general service lamps) is required in order to strengthen communication activities, to allow for technological innovations and to consider the concerns expressed about the availability of compliant technologies and perceived health and mercury issues, including safe disposal for compact fluorescent lamps [CFLs]"


In addition to the safe disposal mentioned, recycling seems to be an issue.
These problems can hardly come as a surprise - note the recent "Acute Crisis" of dumped CFLs reported by a minister in the European Union.


From Send Your Light Bulbs To Washington
(itself quoting from a CBC Canada article of Dec 30 2011):

“Poor CFL Recycling” delays Canada Bulb Ban
A lack of recycling options for the mercury-containing compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), touted by government as the environmentally friendly lighting alternative, has in part led to a delay in new federal energy efficiency regulations.

The regulations, which ban 75- and 100-watt incandescent bulbs, were supposed take effect Jan. 1, 2012.
But last month, the federal government quietly delayed that ban by two years, citing recycling issues and “perceived health effects.”

The bulbs contain mercury, a dangerous toxin, and need to be disposed of correctly.
According to Environment Canada, less than 10 per cent of CFLs are recycled. And tens of millions are sold each year.

(more on the SYLBTW blog)