CIRCULAR LIGHTING
Photo credit: Lightly
5 SIMPLE STEPS TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE LIGHTING Sustainability in lighting - a broad, sometimes confusing topic, that can be looked at in many ways. Circular lighting economy, material ingredient reporting (MIRs), environmental product declarations (EPDs), life cycle analyses (LCAs), factory working conditions, carbon counting, recycling/buyback programs, and more – are all different lenses of sustainability in lighting. There’s a lot of buzz and it can seem overwhelming, but getting started is easy! Here are five practical actions you can take – today! – to move towards designing more sustainably. 1.
itself does not inherently contain these hazardous substances, so luminaires can very feasibly be RoHS compliant – and many already are. How to do it: In design: •
Require all lighting products you specify to be made with RoHS-compliant components.
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Why? RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) is a directive that restricts substances that are known to be harmful to the environment and human health in manufacturing. When electronic products containing these hazardous materials are disposed of improperly or end up in landfills, there is a risk of them leaching into soil and water, posing environmental hazards. The manufacturing and disposal processes of electronic devices can also expose workers and communities to health risks associated with these substances. While RoHS originated in the EU (all applicable products must be compliant since 2001), its influence has extended globally, and many manufacturers worldwide adhere to RoHS standards to ensure market access and address growing environmental concerns. LED technology
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designing lighting
By SARA SCHONOUR, LC, MIES
Design around RoHS-compliant products, seeking the "RoHS Compliant" stamp or the CE mark on product cutsheets. Clearly state "RoHS compliance required" on the luminaire schedule/notes for all products. If suggested products fall short of compliance, request the product manufacturer’s local agent to convey the criteria to the manufacturer and encourage RoHS compliance.
In Bidding/Construction Administration: • During submittal reviews, verify the presence of the "RoHS Compliant" stamp or the CE mark on product cutsheets. 2.
Reach out to Your Reps
Why? A great manufacturer’s rep can be a valuable resource, and being clear with them about your goals can supercharge their effectiveness for you and your team.