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FAQ

Do compact fluorescent bulbs contain mercury?

CFLs, including GU24 bulbs, contain a miniscule amount of mercury - about 5 milligrams. Mercury helps make compact fluorescent bulbs energy efficient.

However, compare the power plant emissions over the lifetime of an incandescent bulb to a CFL. Using an incandescent bulb will release an average of 13 mg of mercury into the environment. CFLs will contribute a paltry 3.5mg over their much longer lifetimes.

Any compact fluorescent bulb should still be recycled or disposed of according to local guidelines. Contact your local municipal solid waste agency or visit Lamprecycle.org.