A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), also known as a compact fluorescent light  is a type of fluorescent lamp. Many CFLs are designed to replace an incandescent lamp and can fit into existing light fixtures formerly used for incandescents.

Compared to general service incandescent lamps giving the same amount of visible light, CFLs generally use less power, have a longer rated life, but a higher purchase price. In the United States, a CFL can save over US $30 in electricity costs over the lamp's lifetime compared to an incandescent lamp and save 2000 times its own weight in greenhouse gases.

CFLs radiate a different light spectrum from that of incandescent lamps. Improved phosphor formulations have improved the subjective color of the light emitted by CFLs such that the best 'soft white' CFLs available in 2007 are subjectively similar in color to standard incandescent lamps

 The main department of Enviorment protection did a study on Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) Bulbs with shocking results. Just one broken bulb can raise mercury vapor levels to over 300 times what the EPA considers safe.  Currently an estimated two tons of mercury in the form of vapor is contaminating the U.S. annually.

A maine woman had to pay $2000 for the cleaning of a "hazardous waste site" after she accidentially broke a CFL bulb in her home. Mercury vapor can cause serious neural damage, especially in children and developing fetuses, but consumers are being kept in the dark in regards to these spiral shaped monsters that cost over $2 more than conventinal bulbs.

Is an energy-saving light bulb more important than the health of a nation? Conventional and safe incandescant light bulbs are scheduled to be outlawed in 4 years. If this law is not revoked the U. S. will most likely experience a dramatic rise in mercury related issues such as Alzheimers and Autism.