Beginning in 2012, the compact fluorescent light is likely to be the only lightbulb available to consumers. Persuaded that CFLs save energy and therefore benefit the environment, many people have already started replacing the incandescent lights in their homes with these unusual-looking objects. Most find the light from CFLs unappealing, but it's a small thing to do to save the planet.
Recently I heard a report on NPR about the potential hazards of CFLs. They contain mercury which escapes when the bulb is broken, and people were cautioned about using them in lamps that might be accidentally overturned--such as lamps in children's rooms or, in my experience, anywhere in homes where there are cats. Mercury also raises critical environmental concerns about appropriate disposal and recycling.
Respected lighting designer Howard Brandston has a commentary about CFLs on his website concerninglight.com. Brandston takes the position that the potential problems of CFLs far outweigh the potential benefits in energy savings and advocates for a repeal of the mandate to phase out incandescent light in favor of CFLs. His commentary and research are recommended reading.