MADISON, Wis. -- One way someone can lighten his or her carbon footprint is by using compact flourescent lights in his or her home.

Madison Gas and Electric officials said that if all of its customers replaced their five most-used bulbs with such a bulb, they'd save enough electricity to power 8,800 homes for one year.

One important twist, however, for the use of such bulbs is that they contain mercury. The poisonous element makes the bulbs energy efficient but is no longer allowed at landfills.

Dane County requires all businesses selling CFLs to take them back for recycling, but some retailers charge a small fee.

For More Info:

The EPA's guide to CFL bulb recycling (includes drop-off points)
Find a retailer near you at this Web site. Ikea's free take-back program
Other sources for recycling options include this site or this site