Americus Times-Recorder: Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs, Mercury
Filed under: Earth 911 - September 15, 2007
The Cooperative Extension Housing and Environment programs shared this information on compact fluorescent light bulbs and mercury with me, and my goal is to extend as much educational material to you covering various topics as possible. This information covers ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs.
Why should people use CFLs? Switching from traditional light bulbs to CFLs is an effective, accessible change every American can make right now to reduce energy use at home and prevent greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global climate change. Lighting accounts for close to 20 percent of the average home’s electric bill. Energy Star qualified CFLs use up to 75 percent less energy than incandescent light bulbs, last up to 10 times longer, cost little up front and provide a quick return on investment.
If every home in American replaced just one incandescent light bulb with an ENERGY STAR qualified CFL, in one year it would save enough energy to light more than three million homes and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of more than 800,000 cars.
Do CFLs contain mercury and what is mercury? Mercury is an element (Hg on the periodic table) found naturally in the environment. Mercury emissions in the air can come from both natural and man-made sources. Coal-fired power plants are the largest man-made source because mercury that naturally exists in coal is released into the air when coal is burned to make electricity. Coal-fired power generation accounts for roughly 40 percent of the mercury emissions in the U.S.
The federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is implementing policies to reduce airborne mercury emissions. Under regulations EPA issued in 2005, mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants will drop by nearly 70 percent by 2018.
The use of CFLs reduced power demand, which helps reduce mercury emissions from power plants. CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing — an average of five milligrams — about the amount that would cover the top of a ball-point pen. By comparison, older thermometers contain about 500 milligrams of mercury. It would take 100 CFLs to equal that amount.
Mercury currently is an essential component of CFLs and is what allows the bulb to be an efficient light source. No mercury is released when the bulbs are intact or in use. Many manufacturers have taken significant steps to reduce mercury used in their fluorescent lighting products. In fact, the average amount of mercury in a CFL is anticipated to drop by the end of 2007, thanks to technology advances and a commitment from members of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.
What precautions should I take when using CFLs in my home? CFLs are made of glass and can break if dropped or roughly handled. Be careful when removing the bulb from its packaging, installing it or replacing it. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base (not the glass), and never forcefully twist the CFL into a light socket. If a CFL breaks in your home, follow the clean-up recommendations below. Used CFLs should be disposed of properly (see below).
What should I do with a CFL when it burns out? EPA recommends that consumers take advantage of available local recycling options for compact fluorescent light bulbs. EPA is working with CFL manufacturers and major U.S. retailers to expand recycling and disposal options. Consumers can contact their local municipal solid waste agency directly, or go to epa.gov/bulbrecycling or earth911.org to identify local recycling options. If your state permits you to put used or broken CFLs in the garbage, seal the bulb in two plastic bags and put it into the outside trash, or other protected outside location, for the next normal trash collection.
How should I clean up a broken fluorescent bulb?
- Open a window and leave the room for 15 minutes or more.
- Carefully scoop up the fragments and powder with stiff paper or cardboard and place them in a sealed plastic bag. Use disposable rubber gloves (not bare hands). Wipe the area clean with damp paper towels and place them in the plastic bag. Do not vacuum or use a broom to clean up the broken bulb on hard surfaces.
- Place all cleanup materials in a second sealed plastic bag and place it outdoors. (note: some states prohibit such trash disposal — make a call)
- Wash your hands after disposing of the bag.
- If a fluorescent bulb breaks on a rug or carpet, remove all materials you can without using a vacuum cleaner. Sticky tape (such as duct tape) can be used to pick up small pieces and powder. If vacuuming is needed after all visible materials are removed, remove the bag after vacuuming or empty the canister. Seal debris in two sealed plastic bags and put in the outdoor trash.
Save money; make the right energy investment for your needs!