Fluorescent lamps/lightbulbs contain a very small amount of mercury that is sealed within the glass tubing. The amount of mercury found in a typical compact fluorescent would cover the tip of a ballpoint pen (or about 4 milligrams). Mercury is a basic element of a fluorescent lamp, and it allows the bulb to be energy efficient. Manufacturers have worked to reduce the amount of mercury in the lamps to lower levels.
Some communities have recycling options for fluorescent lamps. No mercury is released when the bulb is not broken. However, if the bulb breaks, there are some concerns and proper cleanup is essential. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website is a good source for cleanup information. http://www.epa.gov/mercury/spills/#fluorescent
Incandescent lighting results in mercury released into the atmosphere when the power source is from coal-fired electrical power. Compact fluorescent lamps use less electricity than incandescent lights, and thus reduce the amount of mercury released resulting from coal-fired electrical power.
