‘Going green’ is not without its inconveniences, especially after dropping a CFL bulb

‘Going green’ is not without its inconveniences, especially after dropping a CFL bulb

EDITOR:

Everyone is looking for a way to lower the effect on the environment. Recycling, reusing and energy saving are all part of the “Going Green” movement. I support these changes, but I also realize the effect they may have on our day-to-day living. We may change to a different cleaning product, one with a lower level of risk to both our health and the environment, but with a little less cleaning power. We may begin to recycle, but find those extra bins in the garage need cleaning, and that trip to the curb when it is raining or 10 degrees outside becomes a pain. Small inconveniences, but with a big impact on improving our environment/

Now, other than the inconveniences, there may be hazards with going green. For example. we have all heard and seen the new and improved, energy saving compact fluorescent light bulbs, known as CFLs. They save energy, thus are better for the environment and for our pocket books. But there are some concerns.

All fluorescent light bulbs contain mercury that can pose a health risk if broken bulbs are improperly handled or waste bulbs are not correctly recycled. Mercury is a poison. Research has shown that even small amounts of exposure to mercury is more toxic than exposure to lead, cadmium and even arsenic. So, what should you do if you break one of these CFL bulbs?

ULeave the room and ventilate for 15 minutes or more, open the windows.

UWhile wearing rubber gloves, scoop up glass shards and debris from the bulb with a stiff piece of cardboard.

UAvoid creating or inhaling dust from the broken bulb.

UDon’t use a vacuum or broom to clean up after a broken bulb on hard surfaces.

UPlace the remains in a plastic bag.

UWipe up the immediate area with a damp paper towel put it in the bag as well and seal it.

UIf you need to use a vacuum on carpet (after cleaning up the debris), place the filter bag in a plastic bag as well.

UWash your hands after finishing the clean up.

UCheck with local authorities on procedures for disposal. Mercury is a hazardous household waste and can’t be thrown out with ordinary household trash in some areas.

So, “Going Green” is a good thing, but you just have to accept some of the inconveniences the changes may bring.

JOHN P. LESEGANICH

Canfield

X The writer is a certified public environmental auditor by the Bureau of Environmental, Health, and Safety Auditor Certifications (BEAC).