Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are known for saving power. What is less known is that they have high mercury content, which damages the environment and human health. According to non-profit Toxics Link, 22 sample bulbs taken from the four leading manufacturing brands of CFLs in India showed mercury presence up to 21.2 milligram per unit on an average. A 2008 CPCB survey says the average mercury used in CFLs is much lesser at 7.5 mg.
| Highs and lows |
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- Toxics Link Study samples show that maximum mercury content in a bulb may be as high as 62.56 mg; the minimum was found to be 2.27 mg
- In the US, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) have voluntarily capped the mercury content to 4mg/CFL unit of up to 25 watts and 5 mg for units above 25 watts
- In Europe the Restriction of Hazardous substances (ROHS) law mandates mercury capping at 5mg/CFL
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Unregulated market
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Study cannot be taken at face value: industry
| India's CFL production potential |
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400-500 million pieces per annum: Indian market's potential to manufacture
20 million: number of CFL bulbs manufactured in 2003
200 million: number of CFL bulbs manufactured in 2008
8.5 tonnes: Amount of mercury leaching into environment from CFL bulbs in India |
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