Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the reuse potential of post-consumer lamps collected in two selective waste collection cooperatives in Porto Alegre, Brazil. The goal was to identify functional, partially functional, and repairable lamps and assess their luminous intensity to determine their suitability for reuse. Theoretical framework: The research is grounded in WEEE management, Circular Economy principles, and national and international regulations. It builds on studies reporting increasing global lamp waste, low recycling rates, and challenges in disassembly, as well as findings that many discarded LED lamps remain functional. Method: Lamps were collected in 2022 and 2023 and sorted by type and physical condition. Functionality was tested on an energized bench, classifying lamps as non-working, partially working, or fully working. Fully functional lamps had their luminous intensity measured using a Minipa MLM-1011 lux meter. Lamp power was also recorded. Results and discussion: Of 831 lamps, LED technology showed the highest reuse potential: in both cooperatives, more than half of the LED lamps were functional or partially functional. Most lamps were 9 W, and several discarded units showed luminous intensity comparable to new lamps. Fluorescent lamps had low reuse potential due to breakage and unsafe operation, while incandescent lamps appeared in small numbers. Implications of the research: Results indicate opportunities for cooperatives to implement reuse protocols, generating income and supporting Circular Economy strategies. The findings also highlight the need for public education and regulatory improvements. Originality: The study uniquely evaluates the real reuse potential of LED lamps in Brazilian cooperatives, providing empirical evidence that many discarded lamps remain viable for reintegration into the market.
Rosa et al. (Thu,) studied this question.