Does the mercury contained in compact fluorescents make incandescent bulbs better for the environment?
No. Although compact fluorescents (CFLs) contain small amounts of mercury, they are far more energy-efficient compared to incandescent bulbs. This means CFLs reduce greenhouse gas emissions from electrical generating stations powered by fossil fuels, as well as the need to build new power generating stations. And because CFLs last about 8 times longer, fewer bulbs and far less packaging ends up in landfills. Should I be concerned about using CFLs in my home? CFLs are safe to use in your home. No mercury is released when the bulbs are in use and they pose no danger to you or your family when handled properly. An extremely small amount of mercury, an average of five milligrams, is sealed within the glass tubing. For a basis of comparison, there are about 500 milligrams to two grams of mercury in your average home thermometer. It would take between 100 to 400 CFLs to equal that same amount of mercury! What is my health risk should a CFL break in my home? Research indicates that there is n
Related Questions
- Compact fluorescent lamps contain mercury, a hazardous material, incandescent bulbs do not. If more compact fluorescent lamps are used, does it not mean more mercury pollution in the EU?
- Does the mercury contained in CFLs make incandescent bulbs better for the environment?
- Do energy efficient incandescent bulbs save as much as compact fluorescents?
