Eco-friendly light bulbs flip switch on problems

Washington Times

7/20/2009

Mercury may end up in trash

An energy-efficiency measure is turning into a ticking green time bomb.

The federal government plans to require consumers over the next several years to replace incandescent light bulbs with more expensive but more energy-efficient and longer-lasting compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).

But improper disposal of the mercury-powered bulbs poses an environmental hazard, and the federal government has given little guidance to consumers. The outlets for safe disposal are few and haphazard, and history suggests that compliance will be spotty.

The story continues …..

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