Recolight supports circular economy with redistribution of phosphor powders
Recolight has put in place a system for the redistribution of residue phosphor powders extracted from the gas discharge lamps it recycles.
The phosphor powders include the rare earths used in the manufacture of lamps. The market for the supply of rare earths has been challenging in recent years. It is therefore hoped that this move by Recolight will help lamp producers to reduce the risks associated with access to rare earths.Recolight took action to prevent phosphor powders from being landfilled whilst options for recovery and distribution were investigated. Recolight will now make the powders recovered during recycling available to producer members, if they want them.
Alex Hawkins, operations manager of Recolight, said, ‘This is a real step forward for Recolight and its members. The scarcity of rare earths has been a real concern to the lighting industry. Implementing this new system will benefit our members and help to ensure a sustainable future for the industry. We are proud that our industry is at the vanguard of the circular economy.’
