#BrightIdea Update! (Yes, a blast from the past!)
Back in 2017, my Private Member’s Bill C-238 became law, requiring the Government of Canada to develop a national strategy for the safe and environmentally sound disposal of lamps containing mercury.
I’m proud to see the most recent report to Parliament confirms the progress that’s been made because of this effort!!
Fast forward to 2025: sales of mercury-containing lamps (like compact fluorescent bulbs and long fluorescent tubes) have dropped sharply as Canadians switch to LEDs — but that makes recycling the high volume of remaining ones even more crucial.
As of this report, over 100 million lamps have been recycled, and new regulations will prohibit their manufacture and import by the end of 2025.
With recycling programs now covering more than 80% of Canadians, we’re helping to ensure mercury from these bulbs stays out of our environment.
This shows how a community-driven idea from Dartmouth—Cole Harbour can grow into national action — protecting our environment and improving public health.
Photo of me signing Private Member’s Bill C-238 before tabling it in the House of Commons.