In the process of recycling of fluorescent tubes in Germany 200 t per annum of luminants are still deposited as toxic wastes because of mercury traces. These luminants contain about 10% of Y2O3 and 0,3% Eu2O3 and are, therefore, valuable rare earth sources, A process is shown for yielding the Y2O3 component in 99,99% purity and its costs are compared with international market prices.