As Texans look for ways to reduce energy consumption, many
people are replacing traditional incandescent lightbulbs with
compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs). A CFL uses about 75 percent
less energy than a traditional incandescent lightbulb.
CFLs offer environmental benefits because they use less energy,
and because they last longer.
If you are interested in replacing your incandescent lightbulbs,
you can find more information on compact fluorescent lightbulbs
from the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Energy
Star program. 
Mercury and CFLs
Like other fluorescent lightbulbs, compact fluorescent
lightbulbs do contain mercury. However, the amount of mercury in
CFLs is very small, and it is important to note that no mercury is
released when CFLs are intact or in use. For more information, see
the EPA's
Frequently Asked Questions about Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
and Mercury.
If a CFL breaks in your home, there are some simple steps you
can take to properly clean up broken bulbs. The EPA
provides this information on page two of its
Energy Star fact sheet under "How
should I clean up a broken fluorescent bulb?"
CFL Recycling and Disposal
Recycling is the best disposal option for CFLs. If recycling is
not an option in your area, disposing of CFLs in the regular trash
is a legal option for households, but not for some businesses. If
you dispose of bulbs in this manner, you should seal the CFL in a
plastic bag prior to placing in the trash. If you would like more
information about recycling or properly disposing of your used
CFLs, see our list of local
recycling contacts or visit www.cleanup.org.
Fluorescent Lamp Information for Businesses
Businesses looking to properly dispose of fluorescent lamps can
find out more from the TCEQ guide about complying with
laws when disposing of lamps and other equipment containing
mercury.
