Can LED lighting really reduce my carbon footprint?
According to the US Department of Energy, nearly 15% of global electricity consumption and 5% of global emissions come from lighting. If we can significantly lower the power we use on lighting then we will dramatically reduce our carbon footprint and the way it effects the environment.
Many businesses are already legally obliged to report on annual energy use, carbon emissions and set a plan in place for reaching net zero and this directive is likely to follow for smaller businesses. In addition to compliance, we are also seeing the demand for environmentally proactive brands gather momentum and businesses are actively looking to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable business practices in hope of competitive advantage and company longevity.
Switching to LED lighting is an easy way to dramatically reduce your carbon footprint and emissions whilst resulting in a more energy efficient workspace. For every traditional standard halogen lamp you switch to a similarly bright LED lamp, you save approximately 5kg of CO2 emissions and by upgrading to LED lighting you can potentially save up to 80% on your lighting energy costs and these are only some of the benefits.
LED luminaries significantly outperform and outlast traditional lamp technology and, their longer life drives savings all along the product lifecycle, from materials, manufacturing and installation to maintenance and replacement. LED’s also have the ability to future proof many existing installations by offering the option to provide retro fit LED chambers within existing luminaire housings which minimises further waste and the impact on the environment.
LED prices have significantly fallen over recent years, reducing the initial investment, and ROI now typically ranges from 12 to 36 months.
Whilst the benefits of LED lighting is extensive, from efficiency, durability, functionality and versatility, to employee wellbeing, productivity and brand reputation (for more info on benefits click here). It is not always as simple as switching lamps like for like. A lighting audit is recommended to ensure your lighting design meets your business requirements and improves workplace conditions in accordance with lighting standards and health and safety.
Next steps…
If you would like more information on LED lighting and design and/or energy and carbon reduction, our team of experts are on hand to help, please call us on 03330 433 233.