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Low Energy Light Bulbs

Low Energy Light Bulbs in the News

"Low Energy Light Bulbs - Savers or Wasters?"

A special feature by Dave Mulligan
 
 

 
BusinessGreen.com 20/1/2009 "Why it's time to throw some light on the energy efficient lighting row"

This is quite a well balanced discussion, particularly in relation to the mercury problem, though some of its statements are, at first sight, a bit glib. Nevertheless read on from about halfway down the page, starting with "Thirdly, The Mail touched upon complex disposal issues arising from the bulbs’ mercury content." It's interesting to ponder on why we should be proceeding with such clear health, environmental, and safety concerns.

You could also have a look at my toxic mercury page
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 SouthCoastToday.com 19/1/2009 "Freetown offers tips on proper mercury disposal"

In the event that a CFL breaks, the DEP advises that it not be cleaned up using a vacuum or broom. The proper procedures for cleaning up a breakage on various surfaces can be found on the DEP Web site or by calling their mercury hotline (866) 9-MERCURY, or (866) 963-7287.

Although the bulbs require special disposal, town officials support their use.
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Daily Mail 7/1/2009 "Revolt! Robbed of their right to buy traditional light bulbs, millions are clearing shelves of last supplies"

People are realising that they may not be able to buy tungsten bulbs in future, and supplies are running out. See CFLs flicker back to life! 7/1/09.
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 BusinessGreen.com 7/1/2009 "Lighting experts slam Mail energy efficient bulb scare story"
One of the reactions to today's Daily Mail story. See my CFLs flicker back to life! 7/1/09.
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BBC News 5/1/08 Low-energy bulb disposal warning

The Environment Agency has called for more information to be made available on the health and environmental risks posed by low-energy light bulbs. 
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 BBC News 4/1/08 Low-energy bulbs 'worsen rashes' 

Up to 100,000 people in the UK with certain skin conditions could suffer painful reactions when exposed to light from low energy lightbulbs.
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BBC News 2/1/08 Low-energy bulbs "cause migraine"

The Migraine Action Association says members have told them how fluorescent bulbs have led to attacks. 
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 BBC News 27/9/07 Switch off for traditional bulbs

The "trigger" story!
Plans to phase out the traditional lightbulb by 2011 have been announced by Environment Secretary Hilary Benn.
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Financial Post (Canada) 28/4/07 The CFL mercury nightmare

When Brandy Bridges of Ellsworth, Maine, accidentally broke a CFL the ensuing nightmare involved a cleanup cost of over US$2,000 - which didn't include the costs of frayed nerves and risks to health!

Note: This link has pop-ups!
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 Star News Online (USA) 18/5/08 Not so easy being green: Mercury in low-energy bulbs makes disposal a bit trickier

"Low-energy bulbs contain a pinprick amount of mercury, or more specifically mercury vapor, a dangerous heavy metal. Mercury, which impairs the nervous system, is especially dangerous to fetuses and infants."
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"Low Energy Light Bulbs - Savers or Wasters?"

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