CFLs and Mercury Pollution

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) contain the poisonous heavy metal: mercury. Each compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) contains around 4 milligrams (mg) of mercury. However, CFLs reduce mercury emissions significantly in regions electrified by coal-fired generators because CFLs use one-quarter of the electricity as incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer. The amount of mercury saved by replacing an incandescent bulb with a CFL is around 8 mg due to the reduced mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants. Nevertheless, CFLs should be recycled to avoid polluting the environment with even the small amount mercury contained in the CFL. Chain stores like Home Depot, Ace Hardware, and others have initiated recycling programs for CFLs.

One of the best sources of information about compact fluorescent lights is the Better Bulbs web site.

For more information on lighting, see Residential Energy: Cost Savings and Comfort for Existing Buildings Chapter 7.