A New Light On Bulbs

We are all trying to live healthy and responsible lives. Whether you believe we are in Global Warming or that the Earth is going through climate cycles, we all need to do our part. So, in the 2008 edition we carry an article that addresses greenhouse gases.  (page 52),  where we mention replacing conventional bulbs with bulbs that carry the Energy Star label. In the case of light bulbs, many states have been encouraging and may soon outlaw conventional bulbs in favor of compact fluorescent bulbs.

Yesterday we  learned that if one of these bulbs is broken, mercury is released and the clean up is difficult. Don’t panic. There is about 5 milligrams of mercury in a bulb compared to the old mercury thermometers which contained 100 times that amount. The difference is that if a bulb breaks mercury gets into the air and can remain in the carpet.. If a bulb breaks don’t vacuum it. That lifts mercury into the air you breath. The best advise I have heard so far is to open windows in your home for a few hours. Then pick up pieces and put them into a sealed glass jar. Apparently, mercury eats through a plastic bags over time.

Don’t use these bulbs in children’s rooms or places where they might get broken. The bulbs are still a good idea but as we learn more about the dangers, we will share them with you.  Look for a recycling center in your town that takes burned out bulbs. More to come.