And long before the lights have gone their brightest day, chances are that you change the batteries a couple of times and in some devices, including lamps.
You are good for the environment (and probably pocket) choosing solar energy. The question: how to stay green when disposing of solar lighting and its components?
Batteries
All lights solar rechargeable batteries used in one form or another. Nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and lithium ion (Li-Ion) are the most common, although a few solar lights use rechargeable lead.
While some chemicals are more dangerous than others, all batteries be disposed of as hazardous substances. Handle batteries should be treated the same household chemicals such as thinner, paint, pesticides / herbicides and drugs, even.
A growing trend among many landfills to facilities for hazardous goods on a regular basis.
Bulbs
If a solar device uses LED lighting, it is likely that by the time the LED is worn, replace the entire luminaire is the most cost effective solution. There are exceptions, such as solar street lighting and solar reflectors some great destiny.
Some solar lights use halogen or compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), and they do not contain hazardous substances. While halogen containing different substances, many of which contain tungsten, all bulbs contain mercury.
Both halogen and compact fluorescent lamps, batteries and must be disposed of as hazardous substances.
Disposal of Old Solar Lights
Is it true that the total waste generation factor of solar illumination is greater than the positive effects on the environment. Often you can use the batteries and bulbs for placing solar lighting in the regular trash. During the last ten years have seen a growing number of abandoned landfills PCs and laptops, mobile phones and smart, video games, GPS navigation systems, and small appliances. Some contain dangerous substances other than batteries.
Many waste disposal facilities expanded ways to handle electronic waste responsibly. Many landfills now have areas dedicated to electronics and appliances, as many of the components can be recycled.
Do not be lazy or irresponsible
Perhaps you think that the disposal of hazardous substances or electronics is a burden and a few and there will not hurt to make a difference.
It is also true that, like many people, you sunlamps packaging components or in newspapers and put them in the regular trash.