- The mechanism of a compact fluorescent bulb uses a phosphor-coated glass tube which contains about 5 mg of mercury. When you turn a light on, ultraviolet energy is created which causes the phosphor tube to illuminate. An incandescent bulb produces light by the glow of its filament through heat. Up to 90 percent of the energy needed to illuminate an incandescent bulb is lost as heat. CFLs represent an energy-efficient alternative.
- The primary benefit of switching to CFLs is a reduction in fossil fuel emissions due to the energy savings of the bulbs. According to Energy Star, the savings translate into 75 percent less energy than from using regular incandescent bulbs. Even if every U.S. home switched just one light, it would still prevent about 9 billion lbs. of greenhouse gas emissions from entering the atmosphere, according to Energy Star estimates. Their use would also reduce landfill waste, since a CFL lasts 10 times longer.
- The cost savings, however, do not come without risks. Mercury is a highly toxic pollutant, which persists in the environment. It converts to its more toxic form, methylmercury, through chemical reactions. The danger of mercury is that it accumulates in animal tissue. Lethal levels can build up in the tissues of predators or even humans who eat affected fish. Mercury consumption can cause birth defects in developing fetuses.
- Proponents of CFLs are quick to point out that the amount of mercury is miniscule in a single bulb. No mercury is released when the bulbs are used. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that the spent CFLs be recycled because of their mercury content. Businesses are required to treat used bulbs as hazardous waste. Unfortunately, the risk for environmental contamination still exists. According to a 2007 Harris Interactive poll, 23 percent of Americans do not recycle any of their trash. This means that mercury contamination is likely in the future from used CFLs being tossed in the garbage.
- The efficiency of CFLs includes even the recycling of used bulbs, with almost every part able to be reused. While the EPA does not regulate disposal, state or local environmental protection agencies may. If you should break a bulb, your primary concern is preventing contamination of your home or the environment. Do not sweep or vacuum up the broken parts to prevent releasing more mercury into the air. Pick up the broken parts and place them in a sealed bag. Contact your waste management service for information regarding disposal.
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