Compact fluorescent bulbs, or CFLs, are much more energy efficient than regular incandescent bulbs, but they contain a very small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing – an average of 5 milligrams, or the amount that would cover the tip of a ballpoint pen.
No mercury is released when the bulbs are intact or in use, so proper handling and disposal eliminates any mercury risk, according to the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services.

• Activate the sleep feature or turn off office equipment when it’s not in use during the day.
• Turn off computers, monitors, power strips, printers and copiers at night and on weekends.
• Shut off ceiling lights if daylight or task lighting is bright enough.
• Take the stairs instead of elevators whenever possible. As an added bonus, you’ll get some exercise.
• Use manual doors rather than the electric ones.