World governments adopting bright idea.

• Author: Herro, Alana
• Position: EYE ON EARTH - Using fluorescent lamps to cut energy costs

From Australia to Russia, governments are now promoting and even mandating the use of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and other energy-efficient light bulbs to address concerns about rising energy costs and climate change. Lighting absorbs nearly one-fifth of global electricity generation, more than is produced by hydroelectric or nuclear power stations and about the same amount as is produced from natural gas, according to a 2006 International Energy Agency (IEA) report.

Australia will be the first country to ban inefficient incandescent...