Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs and Mercury

Time to kill it?

There is a move in state governments and even the Federal government to force Americans to buy only Compact Flourescent Light (CFLs) Bulbs. Certainly, it is debatable as to whether the government should mandate such an action, or whether it should offer a rebate, for example, rather than limiting choice.

I use compact fluorescent light bulbs and have been using them for many years, yet numerous people have told me such bulbs are dangerous because of mercury. Yet, is this a reason to avoid CFLs?

Power plants emit massive amounts of mercury into the environment, so reducing electricity via CFLs actually results in less mercury overall. Additionally, the EPA claims that even if those bulbs are broke inside your home, you don't have to hire professionals to clean them up. The general public can easily handle this task.

Additionally, these bulbs can be recycled. Click here for more on recycling and clean up guidelines.