Lighting and the environment
It is not just light itself that impacts on the environment but also the products that are used in artificial lighting installations. So for manufacturers of luminaires, lamps and operating devices, environmental acceptability is an essential quality criterion. Low-impact production processes, energy-efficient products and intelligent lighting management systems are all part of the mix. Modern lighting technology saves energy and at the same time provides more lighting comfort – for the good of the user and the environment.
The European Union (EU) has defined requirements for the protection of the environment. They are divided into four areas:
- climate protection (CO2 reduction)
- nature and biodiversity
- environment and health
- sustainable use of natural resources and waste management.
Information about the extensive and regularly updated regulations is provided on EU websites. The standards agreed at EU level are incorporated into national legislation. One example of this is the EuP or Ecodesign Directive, which has been transposed into German law by the Energy-Using Products Act (EBPG). Its aim is to reduce energy consumption throughout a product's working life.
Carbon reduction
Modern lighting technology can contribute substantially to the achievement of EU climate targets: as much as 80 percent of energy consumed in Europe for lighting could be saved by energy-efficient solutions.
Disposal of waste equipment
Even energy-efficient lamps and luminaires need to be replaced at some time. Correct disposal of electrical and electronic equipment is part of responsible stewardship of the environment.
More about recycling luminaires and lamps
Light immissions
From time to time, light is considered a nuisance – for example, when street lighting shines into homes. Care should be taken at the design stage to ensure that lighting installations do not cause "light pollution".
Light and insects
Insects react sensitively to artificial lighting. It can interfere with their natural habits.
