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The GWTF encourages you to replace your incandescent bulbs with new compact flourescent lights (CFLs) because they save energy and help reduce global warming. However, many people are concerned about the mercury contained in CFLs. Are CFLs dangerous?

According to the EPA "mercury is used in a host of products, from airflow/fan limit controls, to jewelry, to shoes, to tilt switches." A typical thermometer found in the medicine cabinet contains about 500 mg of mercury, compared to 3.5 mg for a typical CFL. So, the danger of breaking a thermometer or a tilt switch on your thermostat far exceeds the danger of a CFL.

If you were to break a CFL you should use caution to clean it up, just as you would any other accident involving mercury.  The EPA advise for cleaning a mercury spill includes the following:

● Have everyone else leave the area; don't let anyone walk through the mercury on their way out. Make sure all pets are removed from the area. Open all windows and doors to the outside; shut all doors to other parts of the house.

● DO NOT allow children to help you clean up the spill.

● Mercury can be cleaned up easily from the following surfaces: wood, linoleum, tile and any similarly smooth surfaces.

● If a spill occurs on carpet, curtains, upholstery or other absorbent surfaces, these contaminated items should be thrown away in accordance with the disposal means outlined below. Only cut and remove the affected portion of the contaminated carpet for disposal.

If you want more detailed instructions on cleanup or would like the facts about mercury and its many household uses, click here. This link will take you to the EPA site where there is a lengthy discussion of mercury.

The State of North Carolina is one of a few states that currently do not have a mercury recycling law in place. I call on Lowes or Home Depot or Wal-Mart to demonstrate their commitment to the community by providing a recycling program for CFLs and other mercury containing devices.
 ... Answer by Gary Prichard