An all-metal electron emissive structure for low-pressure lamps is disclosed. The all-metal electron emissive structure consisting of one or more metal is operable to emit electrons in response to a thermal excitation, wherein an active region of the electron emissive structure under steady state operating conditions has a temperature greater than about 1500 degree K, and wherein the cathode fall voltage in the discharge medium under steady state operating conditions is less than about 100 volts. A lamp including an envelope, an electrode including the all-metal electron emissive structure, and a medium, is also disclosed.