LIGHTING
REDUCING THE ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT OF LIGHTING
BY LEANNE NIXON , GENERAL MANAGER
Careful consideration for the environment is a must when designing your outside lighting project . Lighting can completely transform an outdoor space , adding ornamental beauty to trees , paths , outdoor structures ; enhancing specific features and providing light for access and functions . It is very easy to overcompensate when it comes to lighting so incorporating designs for specified use is extremely important . Less is more with outdoor lighting ; always keep it to a minimum , only illuminating the areas which actually need lighting . This will not only look more effective , but have less of a negative impact on local wildlife
( and neighbours ). There are multiple factors to consider when it comes to illuminating an outdoor space .
Power consumption – What is best ? With LEDs now being the go-to Luminaire , efficiency has improved when it comes to general lighting compared to older , incandescent lamps , but can we do more ? The answer is , yes ! It is often mistaken that low wattage lamps are low brightness but this is not the case . Lumens output and Lux Levels are the measurements of light , wattage is the power consumption . Not all lamps of the same wattage will have the same lumens so it is important to shop around and consider all specifications . Of course the best option to be most environmentally friendly would be to go Solar !
We are all well aware of the global impact of unnecessary power consumption by way of global warming etc , and solar powered lights offer a greener , more sustainable approach to outdoor lighting . This eco friendly option not only reduces negative impacts on the planet , but also slashes the expense of energy bills – especially helpful with the recent ( and continued ) price hikes ! In recent years , solar technology has improved dramatically with more
78 www . landud . co . uk Follow us @ ludmagazine