Energy...

Yes, CFLs are the greatest thing since sliced bread. They use less electricity, last longer, and look cool in your shopping cart. But as their critics are quick to point out, they do contain a small amount of mercury. That means they need to be properly recycled, unlike your old incandescent bulbs, which could just be thrown in the trash.

Unfortunately, a recent news report suggests that most people and businesses don't know how to recycle their used-up CFLs. In fact, surveys indicate that 90% of CFL bulbs are ending up in the garbage!

Kind of defeats the purpose, don't you think?

So, if you're still unsure of how to get rid of your CFLs, here are a few tips:

1. Check with the store where you buy them. My local hardware store collects old CFL bulbs. I just bring them in and hand them over. Easy as pie.

2. Search Earth 911 for local recycling options. Simply type in your zip code and this great site will come up with a list of local recycling and re-use centers.

3. Ask the EPA. They have a complete list of state-sponsored recycling programs on their web site.

4. Recycle in bulk. Businesses, which may end up using dozens or hundreds of CFLs in a building, can order an EasyPak CFL recycling container which holds up to 90 bulbs. The price of the $74.95 container includes shipping to return it when it's full. (This is also a good option for neighborhood who might want to recycle together.)

CFL recycling can seem like a pain, especially for individuals who might only have to get rid of one at a time, but as the bulbs get further established in our both our homes and our businesses, it's extremely important to understand our recycling options and to have good systems in place for when bulbs need to be replaced.

By the way, the next generation of CFLs will contain a lot less mercury -- and LED bulbs, when available, will be even greener -- so let's do our part now until something better comes along.