LEDs are made of approximately 95% recyclable components, for example, diodes and semiconductors, and so are treated the same way traditional electronics are treated. Moreover, as LEDs do not contain significant amounts of any harmful components, they are classed as RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant. Due to this compliance, LEDs are collected separately from household wastes or they can be disposed of on designated waste centres. In the UK there is a designated commission, WEEE, that deals with electrical waste and electronic equipment regulations.

Although LEDs have environmental friendly properties during their lifespan, it is important that they are recycled correctly. LEDs contain relatively high amounts of elements which can be harmful to the environment if they do not be recycled properly. Most LED lamps contain a high proportion of nickel, and coloured bulbs contain lead. Both of those substances can be recycled. 

Approximately half of the carbon emissions created are generated from the production of electricity. LED lighting technology is designed to use less energy than traditional lighting. As such, the overall kW/hr consumption per year is less which helps reduce the overall carbon emissions. A global switch to energy efficient LED technology could significantly reduce CO2 emissions.

LEDs provide many environmental advantages, including being energy efficient, producing zero toxic elements, reducing light pollution, requiring less light fixtures, and having a longer lifespan. LED lights are highly energy efficient and can save around 90% energy consumption compared to incandescent and 50% compared to fluorescent. LEDs are significantly more efficient than fluorescent and incandescent lights. Specifically, if you convert a halogen lamp to LED you can save up to 95% of energy.

If you want to know how much you can save check out our Energy Savings Calculator. LEDs also draw much less power than traditional lamps. This upgrade means less energy use which reduces the demand from power plants, and decreases greenhouse gas emissions.