Government Turns The Light Out On Energy Consuming Bulbs

Friday, 06 June 2008 19:59

One of the measures, announced as part of World Environment Day, is the accelerated phase-out of traditional incandescent light bulbs for energy efficient options such as cleaner, compact fluorescent lamps (CFL’s).

“Lighting is a perfect way to make quick, easy cuts to our greenhouse gas emissions, this is a great step forward in the fight against inefficient and energy consuming lighting,” said Jeff Angel, Director of Total Environment Centre.

“CFL’s use about 20% of the energy consumed by traditional light bulbs and they can last up to ten times longer. Not only are they good for the environment, but they are five times cheaper to run, making them better for the consumer’s purse strings”.

“While we congratulate the government on this initiative, we need to ensure that as the demand for CFL’s rises, there are sufficient recycling options available for used light bulbs which contain mercury,” said Mr. Angel.

“A solid recycling program will ensure that these light bulbs will benefit the environment both during and after their use. Peter Garrett and state environment ministers should urgently press ahead with their plans for a comprehensive recycling scheme.”

“With energy use expected to increase 56% by 2020, immediate and comprehensive action on reducing Australia’s energy consumption is very much welcomed,” Mr. Angel concluded.