by Jbs020709 f3 — February 9, 2009—The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has encouraged people and organizations to turn to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) to cut down on energy use, since they use 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs. However, EPA acknowledges there is a concern because CFLs contain a small amount of mercury.
EPA’s electronics recycling specialist Dan Gallo recently addressed the concern, saying the benefits of lower energy consumption do outweigh the disadvantages, but “EPA promotes and encourages the safe disposal of old CFLs to prevent the release of mercury into the environment.”
“Although CFLs do contain mercury, it is present in trace amounts—five milligrams—an amount that would cover the tip of a ballpoint pen,” said Gallo. “It would take 100 CFLs to equal the amount of mercury contained in older thermometers, which is about 500 milligrams.”
Old CFL bulbs can be taken to Home Depot, IKEA, and Ace Hardware for recycling. Wal-mart is also piloting a CFL recycling program.
“Using CFLs is a quick and easy way for Americans to save energy and money every day, while they also protect the environment,” Gallo said.
But if a bulb accidentally breaks, proper clean-up is necessary. “The first thing you want to do is to get everyone out of room,” Gallo said. “Open a window to air out the room for at least 15 minutes. If you broke the bulb on a hard surface, take a piece of stiff paper or cardboard and scoop up as much of the debris and residue as you can.”
Gallo advises using an old glove or sock to protect hands and then wiping up any remaining residue with a moist paper towel. “If you broke the bulb on a carpeted surface, you’ll want to use sticky tape to blot up any residue. Put everything in a plastic bag or a jar that can be sealed with a lid and dispose of it with the regular…trash.”
For more information, see EPA’s Mercury-Containing Light Bulb (Lamp) Recycling Web page.
