It is important to try and be as eco-friendly as possible. We are provided with a variety of product alternatives that allow us to be greener in our day-to-day lives. Making the switch to LED lighting is an easy way to go green and also save money in the process. The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy has determined that out of CFLs, incandescent, and LED bulbs, LED bulbs are the most environmentally friendly. They are not just environmentally friendly during their use, but also during manufacturing, transport, and disposal. CFLs pose a threat to the environment when disposed of in a landfill because of the byproducts created by the aluminum heat sink on the end of the bulb. The heat sink gives off sulfuric acid, which should not be disposed of in a regular landfill. When disposed of properly, LEDs are significantly safer for the environment than CFLs.
LED bulbs are also longer lasting and use less energy than other bulbs, with the average LED bulb lasting approximately 50,000 hours while only consuming 6-8 watts. On the other hand, incandescent bulbs last 1,200 hours and consume 60 watts. CFLs are slightly better than incandescent, lasting 8,000 hours and consuming 13-15 watts. By switching to LEDs, fewer light bulbs will end up in the landfill producing less waste. LEDs will also save you money in the long run since you will have to purchase fewer bulbs over time.
Another benefit of LED bulbs is that they emit the least amount of CO2. Incandescent bulbs create 4,500 lbs. of CO2 per year. CFLs create slightly less at 1,051 lbs. of emissions per year. LED bulbs create the least at only 451 lbs. of CO2 per year. In a study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency, it was found that by replacing only one light bulb in every house in the U.S. with an LED bulb would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 9 billion pounds. Just something as simple as switching one light bulb can have a huge environmental impact.
Let us at BPC Energy Solutions LED help you go green by converting your building to LED.
For more information check out these sites:
• https://energy.gov/eere/articles/study-environmental-benefits-leds-greater-cfls
• http://exclusive.multibriefs.com/content/the-environmental-benefits-of-led-lighting/facilities-grounds