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CFLs help save energy and money as they require 2/3 less energy
than traditional light bulbs. A 60-watt traditional bulb can
be replaced with a 13-watt CFL bulb.
CFLs contain a small amount of mercury and are safe to use in
your home. No mercury is released while the bulbs are in use
and pose no danger to you or your family, when used properly.
Coal-fired power generation accounts for a large percentage
of airborne mercury emissions, reducing the power needed to
light our homes and businesses will reduce these emissions.
Over a period of 7500-hours a coal-fired plant will emit approximately
13.16 milligrams of mercury to sustain a 75-watt traditional
bulb, but only approximately 3.51 milligrams of mercury for
a 20-watt CFL. There are other equally positive environmental
impacts of switching to CFLs such as the reduction of nitrogen
oxides (which cause smog) and carbon dioxide emissions.
Please download the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) FAQ
sheet on CFLs for disposal and handling instructions at:
EPA mercury facts
There are instructions there if you break
a CFL, florescent bulb or thermometer.
The Town of Washington accepts CFLs for
recycling as well as florescent bulbs, see: Washington Recycling Information
Remember always recycle your used bulbs, never just throw them
in the trash. |
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