Lighting Equipment Recycling for Safer Environments
Many states and municipalities regulate the disposal of ballasts alongside lamps and lighting fixtures due to their potential environmental impact.
Commonly Recycled Lighting Equipment
This list is not exhaustive—items with similar characteristics may also be accepted. For questions about specific items, please contact our customer support team at 888.657.5267.
BAL-NON
Lighting Ballasts - non-PCB
BAL-PCB
Lighting Ballasts - PCB
CAP-NON
Capacitors - non-PCB
LED-DRIV
LED Lighting Drivers
TRAN-NON
Transformers - non-PCB, copper, aluminum
FXL-FLUOR
Fluorescent light fixtures - containing lamps / ballasts
FXN-FLUOR
Fluorescent light fixtures - no lamps / ballasts
FXL-HID
HID/HPS high-bay fixtures - containing lamps / ballasts
FXN-HID
HID/HPS high-bay fixtures - no lamps / ballasts
FX-LED
LED light fixtures / panels
Protecting People and the Planet
NLR offers comprehensive recycling services for both PCB and non-PCB ballasts, ensuring hazardous compounds like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are kept out of the environment. PCBs are synthetic, highly stable chemicals that were banned from manufacturing in 1979 due to their toxicity to humans, wildlife, and ecosystems. Despite the ban, many PCB-containing ballasts remain in circulation due to their long service life. Even ballasts labeled “No PCBs” can contain other hazardous substances. That’s why NLR recommends recycling all ballasts—regardless of labeling. Our process not only prevents environmental harm but also recovers reusable materials for further value.
Lighting equipment like fixtures, ballasts, and drivers often contain recyclable metals, plastics, and electronic components.
Lighting upgrades often generate bulk waste—recycling helps manage it responsibly and keeps your project compliant.
Older lighting gear may contain PCBs or mercury—recycling keeps hazardous materials out of landfills.
Ballasts marked "No PCBs" can still contain toxic substances—recycling ensures safe disposal and recovery.
Recycled lighting fixtures can yield aluminum, copper, and steel—valuable materials for new products.
Accepted types include PCB, DEHP, non-PCB, and electronic ballasts. For safe handling and compliance, do not mix different ballast types. Separate containers must be used for PCB and non-PCB materials.
