Energy efficiency is a benefit of LED lighting that gets a lot of attention. It’s one of the features that makes LEDs so appealing to businesses looking to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. But the environmental impact of LED lighting isn’t limited to improved energy efficiency. Here’s why LEDs are a much better option for the environment.
No Harmful Chemicals
LEDs aren’t made with toxic chemicals like mercury or phosphors, which makes them unique among common light products. When a traditional fluorescent light ends up in the landfill, so too do the toxic chemicals it contains. This toxic waste is why traditional lights must be disposed of through registered waste carriers to ensure compliant disposal. LEDs can be thrown away without the same hazard risk. But while they can be disposed of in the garbage, they can and should be recycled instead. There are valuable components in LEDs, including minute amounts of gold and silver, and recycling ensures these elements are re-used.
The manufacturing process of LEDs is also cleaner, making LEDs a better option from start to finish. Traditional lights use rare metals during production, something that’s minimized significantly with LED manufacturing.
Reduced Light Pollution
Light pollution is a silent, growing issue that affects the environment, wildlife habitats, and our own quality of life. In some cities, ordinances have been passed to reduce light pollution, and dark-sky compliance can often be achieved with LEDs. As a directional light source, they can be used in specific applications with fewer lights that don’t compromise visibility. Instead of emitting light in all directions, LEDs focus light in a single direction to illuminate only what’s needed. LEDs also have a greater light output than other lighting technologies, which means less wattage, yet better light quality. It’s more energy efficient, and it makes it possible to illuminate specific sites — without lighting up the entire sky.
Longer Lifespan
The longer lifespan of LED lights — up to six times as long as other kinds of lights — means reduced maintenance requirements and lower carbon emissions. Fewer replacements means fewer resources are required for things like production and shipping.
If you’re considering an LED retrofit for your business, Have Lights Will Travel can help. In Nevada and California, we’ve been fortunate to work with many companies on LED upgrades. The benefit for your bottom line and the environment makes these projects a win-win, and we’re happy to elaborate. Contact us today.