Energy Saving Light Bulbs Harm the Environment

When we discuss fluorescent lights and their influence on the environment, we cannot ignore the share of mercury. Mercury is toxic element and it is abundantly used in energy saving fluorescent lights. These lamps are thrown into landfill without knowing that the mercury used in them will leak out and pollute the air and land. This mercury easily seeps into the earth and contaminates the under ground water also. 

Energy saving lights is much in use. These are getting acceptance and fame due to their peculiarity. These lights are also advantageous because of their energy saving features. These lights provide the equal brightness and illumination. Moreover, these fluorescent lights are being considered more effective in every way than common incandescent lights. In addition, these energy saving lights can be fitted in ordinary sockets or plugs very conveniently. Everyone likes to use these lights in his/her house instead of expensive, dull and out fashioned lights. 

However, we are disregarding its impact on our environment. Are these lights eco-friendly?? Before we address this question, it is necessary to comprehend the structure or assembly of energy saving lights. 

Internal surface of fluorescent lights is layered with phosphor salts of different blends of metallic and rare earth metals. These lights are filled with inert gas like argon or krypton. These gases and the vapors of mercury are filled in fluorescent lights at low pressure. Energy saving lights also has lead powder, fluorine and neon as additives.

A recent survey has revealed that 30,000 pounds of mercury resulting from 600 million fluorescent lights used in the USA. Mercury discharged from coal-power plant is also a cause of air and land pollution. The figure of 30,000 pounds means, half of mercury releases from these energy saving fluorescent lights. Half of the total mercury in the environment is result of fluorescent lights. Even a small amount of mercury can pollute a large volume of water e.g. 7,000 gallons of water can be polluted only with 4mg of mercury. It means you can pollute the entire source of water only by adding little amount of mercury in it. It is said that 30,000 pounds of mercury is enough to contaminate the whole reservoirs of water in North America.