Bright Light

How many light bulbs does it take to change the world? One. If each household in America replaced just one incandescent light bulb with an energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL), it would eliminate the equivalent of emissions created by one million cars. And most homes have 15-30 bulbs.

CFL bulbs contain an very small amount of mercury; about 1/100 the amount in a household thermometer. An unbroken CFL doesn't pose a health concern. However, expended CFL's should be disposed of properly, just like household hazardous waste such as paint and batteries.

If a CFL bulb breaks:

• Don't inhale the vapor.
• Don't use a vacuum.
• Sweep the pieces together with a brush or broom.
• Clean up glass with a wet rag or towel and place the towel, along with the pieces, into a sealed plastic bag.

Dispose of expended or broken CFL's at your local Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Site. If your local HHW Collection Site does not accept CFLs, check with local authorities. Many CFL retail outlets also offer safe disposal or recycling.