LEDs are well-known for their efficiency, which translates to energy savings for the consumerenergy savings for the consumer. But they have many other characteristics that make them the best choice from a sustainability perspective too.

Sustainability-and-LED-lighting

Merriam-Webster defines sustainable as:

    • able to be used without being completely used up or destroyed
    • involving methods that do not completely use up or destroy natural resources
    • able to last or continue for a long time

When we use these definitions to gauge the sustainability of a product, LEDs are clear leaders.

 

Sustainable Characteristics of LEDs

 

LED lighting supports sustainability in several different ways.

  1. Low energy consumption. LEDs use less energy than other types of light bulbs. This saves the consumer money and places less demand on our energy grid and, ultimately, less demand on the natural resources used to power that grid.
  2. Low heat. Much of the energy consumed by other types of light bulbs is wasted as heat loss. LEDs don’t have this same amount of heat loss, thanks to their efficient design and lack of filament. Cooler bulbs are safer too, posing less of a fire hazard.
  3. No harmful materials used in construction. LED lights do not contain any harmful chemicals or materials. Unlike CFL bulbs, which contain mercury and require special precautions to dispose of them properly.
  4. Waste reduction. Since LEDs last so long (up to 20 years or more) and are more durable than other types of bulbs, fewer dead LED bulbs find their way into the trash.
  5. Recyclability. LEDs are made of recyclable materials. Although you can’t throw them out with the curbside recyclables, LEDs can be taken to special collection events or drop-off locations where they can be collected and sent off to be dismantled. Parts can then be reused, repurposed, or recycled.

 

Intangible Benefits Of LEDs

One important, but intangible, way LEDs support sustainability is in their influence on building practices and lifestyles. We have many choices when it comes to designing, constructing, or retrofitting buildings today. LEDs are consistently at the top of the list of “green”, “sustainable”, and “energy-efficient” building options. Even if LEDs aren’t everyone’s choice in lighting, the fact that they can even get the conversation going about sustainable options, is a step in the right direction.

 

Contact LEDified at 13LEDs to learn more about upgrading to LED lighting in your home or business. Visit www.LEDified.com.au to learn more.