Compact Fluorescent light bulbs (or CFLs) cost a little more than regular bulbs, but they use only a fourth as much energy and last 10 times as long. They’re now available in shapes and sizes to fit most light fixtures. To learn more, see our article CFL: A Bright Idea for Going Green.

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The modern compact fluorescent bulb has been on the market for over 20 years now, so it’s no surprise that they are one of the simplest things you can do to make a green impact in your home. In fact, if every home in the U.S. were to replace just one bulb with a CFL, it would be equal to eliminating the emission of a million cars! Of course, you have to be prepared to pay more, but what I like to tell people is that green living starts with baby steps. Replace just one bulb every other week or so until all your bulbs are CFL’s. Of course, even these long-lasting bulbs will burn out one day, so keep in mind that CFL’s do contain a small amount of mercury, so you don’t want to just throw them in the trash. Use a household hazardous waste collection service in your area to dispose of these bulbs.