Making the switch to energy efficient lighting

The principle of care is one of the tenets underpinning organic agriculture. IFOAM indicate that Organic Agriculture should be managed in a precautionary and responsible manner to protect the health and well-being of current and future generations as well as the environment. Most organic consumers I speak to are keen to extend this fundamental principle into other areas of their daily lives. Saving energy in the home is one of the surest ways we, as individuals, can reduce the load we place on our precious planet. Choosing energy efficient lighting sources can result in significant reductions in household green house gas emissions. So, having some understanding of energy efficient lighting tends to be useful for most organic consumers. But what exactly is energy efficient lighting?

Energy efficient lighting is an approach to lighting that seeks to minimise energy usage while simultaneously delivering upon required functionality. Why is it important? Well, it’s estimated that a 13% reduction in household greenhouse gas emissions is possible merely by choosing appropriate lighting technology. Lighting technology has come a long way in the past ten years. In the past, virtually every household in the United States used incandescent globes. Nowadays, households are able to choose between the older style incandescent globes and the more modern compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL).

What’s the difference? I’m glad you asked. Compact fluorescent light bulbs use around 80 percent less electricity and last around 9 times longer than incandescent light globes. Instead of using between 40 and 100 watts, common in incandescent globes, compact fluorescent light bulbs generally use between 9 and 20 watts. Given that energy consumption and the cost of lighting is directly proportional to a globe’s wattage, it’s fairly easy to see why the newer compact fluorescent light bulbs have the capacity to both reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save you money.

Are there any drawbacks? Compact fluorescent light bulbs are generally more expensive than incandescent globes. However, when their increased lifespan and the cost savings associated with lower energy usage are taken into account, compact fluorescent light bulbs are actually a much less expensive option. In fact, the payback period associated with them, which is the time that elapses before you cover your initial investment, is generally less than a year.

Where can I get them? Compact fluorescent light bulbs are generally available wherever conventional light bulbs are sold, with most hardware stores and major supermarkets stocking a good range. Most will fit straight into your existing light sockets, whether they are the conventional bayonet or screw fitting light sockets. And the good news is, with their increased popularity, the range of colours, shapes, sizes and functions has broadened in recent times. So, whether you’re after a ‘warm white’ colour, similar in appearance to an incandescent globe for use in living areas, kitchens, and bedrooms, or whether you need a ‘cool’ white colour suitable for use in bathrooms, toilets and for outdoor use, you should be able to find something to suit.

If you want to play your part, seriously consider switching over to compact fluorescent light bulbs in favour of the less efficient incandescent globes of yesteryear. In the interim, here are some additional lighting tips that will not only save you money, but will help you to reduce your carbon footprint:

• Use natural lighting as much as possible. If you’re building a new home, look for opportunities to utilise natural light by incorporating skylights and sky dome lighting.
• Turn all lights off when they are not in use.
• Replace any incandescent globes with energy saving compact fluorescent globes.
• Choose globes with the lowest wattage required for each particular area of your home.
• For outdoor settings, choose solar-powered lights.

None of these steps are particularly difficult. And believe me, they can make a difference.