Mercury is used in all fluorescent light tubes, including compact fluorescent bulbs and neon lights. The metallic mercury vapor inside the tube conducts electricity through the gaseous substance, causing fluorescent particles to "light up. Fluorescent bulbs are a very efficient source of lighting and there is no commercial alternative to the mercury used. Recycling the mercury and mercury wastes associated fluorescent lamps reduces the bioaccumulation of mercury in the ecosphere while ensuring the reclamation of tons of usable glass, aluminum, and toxic metals.
