“An Energy Star-labeled CFL uses almost 50 percent less energy and lasts up to 10 times longer than a standard incandescent bulb,” says Peter Kane, spokesperson for Osram Sylvania, which offers compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) in a range of wattages, sizes and styles.

CFLs contain mercury, a toxic metal that should be recycled at your local household hazardous waste collector. Sylvania’s line of low-mercury Energy Star CFLs contains only 3 milligrams of mercury—even less than the new,
environmentally minded industry standard of 5 milligrams. The company also sells CFL recycling kits. The $15 MiniPak holds up to 12 used CFLs and includes shipping to the CFL recycling center. (800) 544-4824; www.Sylvania.com