[mythtv-users] [Slightly OT] solar power for all our gadgets

[Michael T. Dean]

On 03/19/2009 11:27 PM, Johnny wrote:
>> Compact flourescent lamps are actually a net loss to the planet, once the
>> energy to make them and transport them is taken into account,
>> notwithstanding the mercury problem.
>>     
> I see this idea promoted frequently, but when the numbers are actually
> analyzed the assumption proves to be quite inaccurate. I have seen
> studies showing that CFLs break even when compared to incandescent
> bulbs (including manufacturing energy) in the first 50 hours of use.
> That analysis didn't look at shipping cost but I highly doubt that a
> CFL using 20% of the energy couldn't cover its shipping energy in 5-7
> years. There are much more thorough life cycle (ie dust to dust)
> analysis that confirm that from an energy/CO2 point compact
> fluorescent bulbs are dramatically better. Here is a overview of one
> such study http://secondlawoflife.wordpress.com/2008/10/05/compact-fluorescence-lamps/.

And, if people could be convinced to actually recycle the CFL's (which 
would prevent the release of the 1-4mg of mercury vapor), they make even 
more sense.  I've heard that nearly all CFL's are thrown in the garbage, 
ending up in landfills, though I don't have any sources to cite.

To find out where you can recycle your used CFL's, go to 
http://earth911.com/ and type in CFL for "Find recycling centers for" 
and your zip code for "Near".  I know that Home Depot happens to accept 
CFL's, and they seem to be about everywhere, so...

Mike