Do Things The Light Way
The type of bulbs, fixtures and power of our lights has a significant impact on the
environment. In Australia and New Zealand, incandescent light bulbs are being
phased out and replaced by more economical, sustainable and environmentally
friendly lighting options.
COMPACT FLUORESCENT LIGHTBULBS (CFLs)
CFLs give off the same amount of light as incandescent bulbs but use 20% or less
electricity and last about 10 times longer. They release less heat which makes them
safer and more economical. Be aware though, that CFLs contain a small amount of
mercury so they should be disposed of carefully through a chemical collection
service. Check with your local council.
LIGHT EMITTING DIODES (LEDs)
LEDs are definitely one of our favourites. They are extremely energy efficient and
extremely long lasting. LEDs don’t emit heat, consume very little electricity and
because they remain cool to touch they are a safe option for children’s areas and
can be used in floors as uplights without risk to burning bare feet.
SOLAR
Of course solar energy is the ultimate source of sustainable lighting. It’s free,
renewable and requires very little maintenance. Installing solar panels on your roof is
an eco-friendly way to convert sunlight into usable electricity. Skylights are another
way to bring light into the home with long term benefits. Solar is also beneficial for
outdoor lighting. Combining small LEDs with a photocell battery and a small solar
panel that has direct exposure to the sun, you can light up the outdoors and avoid
main electricity sources altogether.
FIXTURES AND SHADES
There’s more to lighting than bulbs. Choosing eco-friendly lamps, light fixtures and
shades is key to greening your lighting. Look for lamps made with natural, recycled
or reused materials. Recycled materials include metal, glass, plastic and paper while
natural materials can include felt, cloth, rattan, bamboo, cork and wood.
You can make a statement with pendant lights and light fittings, and with so many
eco material options you can let your imagination run wild, with new or reused
objects, like copper buckets and mason jars.
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