Dear Jim: I listened to Al Gore on television, and he mentioned new CFL light bulbs for homes. Can I use these in existing lamps, and how much electricity will they save? Is the light quality acceptable? -- Gayle H.

Dear Gayle: Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) have been available for many years. Over the past several years, their prices have dropped considerably and their light quality is much better. Today they are much more commonly used in existing lamps and in new designer lamps.

Carbon emission constraints are creating quite a stir in Washington. Convinced that the country must act, lawmakers on Capitol Hill are seeking direction from members of the European Union on how to establish an emissions trading scheme.

Australia has announced plans to ban incandescent light bulbs and replace them with more energy efficient fluorescent bulbs. The environment minister said the move could cut the country's greenhouse gas emissions by 4 million tonnes by 2012. "It's a little thing but it's a massive change," Malcolm Turnbull said. The decision will make Australia the first country to ban the light bulbs, although the idea has also been proposed in the US state of California.

The 2007 WWJ Newsradio 950 Winter Survival Radiothon benefiting THAW was a great success. We surpassed last year’s total, bringing in almost $400,000. After matches from utility partners, the total will be over $900,000 in energy assistance for needy Michigan families.

THAW 2007 Radiothon

Move is afoot to ban bulbs, switch to fluorescents to save energy

EDISON - One of the inventions that put this central New Jersey township on the map is in danger of going the way of the Edsel car and the horse and buggy. The incandescent light bulb, perfected for mass use by Thomas A. Edison in the late 19th century, is fast being supplanted by fluorescent lighting that is more efficient and longer lasting. The issue made national news last month when California Assemblyman Lloyd Levine announced he would propose a bill to ban the use of the products in his state.