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Lighting

2005-02-28
The use of lighting is a contentious environmental issue, involving energy efficiency and ‘light pollution’ considerations. Artificial light is an indispensable necessity in modern life, however a middle ground needs to be found in order to prevent further unnecessary environmental damage. One of the three main greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide (co2) is emitted whenever a light is turned on. Therefore this a major issue in energy efficient lighting.

Light pollution occurs in exterior situations, when a light illuminates more than it should, and affects the environment. This can affect nocturnal animal species and road users. Nocturnal animals (ie; hedgehogs) use an innate navigational instinct based on light levels, which light pollution disrupts. Considering the fact that the majority of Europe’s fauna is nocturnal, light pollution presents a significant problem in this area.

From a human perspective, light pollution from roadside advertising and installations such as sky beams (laser shows) can disturb the concentration of drivers and lead to accidents. Other groups that are disturbed by light pollution include professional and amateur astronomers, whose work is affected by densely populated areas such as towns and cities. An alternative to high-powered exterior lighting is low-pressure sodium types, which do not cause over-brightness, or use excessive energy, whilst always maintaining the safety element of street lighting.

Interior situations also present lighting problems, mainly to do with energy efficiency and intensity levels. Lighting does not use as much electricity as other domestic tasks such as heating and cooking, however it can still be made more energy efficient.

Traditional light-bulbs use 90% of their energy emitting heat, which is indicative of how wasteful they are in energy terms. Modern light-bulbs use up to 70% less electricity than traditional types, last around ten times longer and emit far less heat. Although they are more expensive than traditional types, energy efficient light-bulbs save the user money on electricity bills over time. Perhaps the most environmentally significant aspect of energy efficient light-bulbs is the reduction of co2 emissions.

Agenda 21 and the Kyoto Protocol are two currently operational government level plans that are designed to reduce the levels of global warming and increase general environmental friendliness. Energy efficient lighting is an issue with both pieces of legislation, as co2 emissions are one of the targeted gases for reduction.

Specific rooms demand specific lighting solutions. For instance kitchen lights are usually left on for sustained periods of time, therefore a low energy light-bulb type is required. A popular choice in kitchens is fluorescent lighting, which is one of the most efficient forms of lighting. Although fluorescents tend to create a sterile atmosphere, a larger light source does not produce sharp shadows or partially illuminate. In the bedroom, there is no real need for a strong main light, providing there are specific purpose lights for activities such as reading or studying. Lounge and Living Room lighting is often a compromise between functionality and decoration. In both cases however, it is important to employ energy efficient bulbs. Modern bathrooms are usually fitted with light activating extractor fans and heat lamps. As bathrooms tend to create a lot of steam, the use of extractor fans is important to reduce steam and condensation which lead to mould and fitting deterioration.

Exterior domestic lighting is generally comes in the form of burglar/intruder lamps and garden illumination. Burglar lighting is heat and movement sensitive, and should be configured so that it only activates in the case of a genuine intrusion, as opposed to slight movements by animals. The installation of burglar lighting should also not create areas of pitch darkness near doorways, as this could inadvertently assist burglars. Decorative garden lighting comes in a wide variety of forms, the most environmentally friendly being the solar-powered type. Solar-powered garden lights are switch and wire-free, and are simply ‘planted’ into the ground. They power-up during the day using solar radiation, which is ever-present, (even on cold cloudy days) and activate when the sun goes down. The light emission from solar-powered garden lights is subtle and understated, and lasts around eight hours.