The Analysis of Spent Fluorescent Lamps for Disposal in China

China is one of the largest consumers and producers of fluorescent lamps in the world and has been facing a growing concern of mercury pollution. This study investigated conditions of production for fluorescent lamps, the previous research about spent fluorescent lamps and the mercury flow of fluorescent lamps in Mainland China using material flow analysis (MFA). The results indicated that there were not enough researches about spent fluorescent lamps, especially about the aspects of technology. The total amount of mercury emissions to the land and atmosphere was 15.04 and 0.63 tons in 2011, respectively. It is urgent to take actions associated with manufacturing, use and recycling to protect environment and save the resources.