British Columbia’s Ministry of Environment has approved the BC Fluorescent Lamps Stewardship Plan—one of the first extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs for lamps in North America. The program will take back fluorescent light bulbs sold for residential use starting July 1, 2010.

Written by Product Care and EEMAC (Electrical Equipment Manufacturers
Association of Canada), the stewardship plan aims to reduce the burden
on municipal waste systems while decreasing the environmental impact of
the product.

Consumers have voiced concern over mercury content (however minute) in
fluorescent lamps. Under the stewardship plan, the minute amounts of
mercury necessary for the fluorescent bulbs to work will be collected,
preventing its release into the water or air. The other components of
the bulbs will also be recycled.

The stewardship plan will be administered by Product Care. With the plan
approved, Product Care is working to implement the collection,
transportation and processing aspects, as well as plan for educating
residents on the program. Non-EEMAC-member producer companies are also
encouraged to join the program.

CLICK HERE to view a copy of the plan.

CLICK HERE for EEMAC.