What is Sustainable Lighting?
The basis of sustainability is to reduce the production and use of non-renewable resources. As well as minimise waste and create a productive and healthy environment. Sustainable lights aim to reduce negative impacts on the environment.
According to the United Nations sustainable development has been defined as:
‘development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.’
Our reliance on natural resources is increasing. Between 2000 and 2019 global use of organic materials has risen by 65%. With this in mind, it may be time to start thinking about ways to reduce your carbon footprint and consider Earth friendly solutions when lighting your home.
What are the Benefits of Sustainable Lighting?
Harvesting plant-based materials has many benefits. Recyclable materials used over and over again save more of our natural resources and produce much less landfill waste. Fewer resources used to make them means less energy consumption and less greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere.
Not only do these green products support a drive towards a better future. They are also less likely to contain harmful materials often added during the manufacturing process. So, in turn, are safer to have in our homes.
In addition items can be more long-lasting when made sustainably. Energy efficient lightbulbs for example can last up to 25 time longer than regular ones. Think of the effect that could have on your purse strings. Not having to replace things over and over again will ensure you’re being energy conscious. It will also be much more cost effective in the long run.
By far the biggest impact of sustainable lighting is the reduced impact it has on the environment as a whole. The use of sustainable lights in our homes is one small step we can take to help reverse the effects of climate change.
Five Tips for Choosing Eco-Friendly Lighting
1. Use Sustainable Materials
Palm
Rattan is known as one of the most environmentally friendly materials. Made from fast-growing durable palm leaf fibres it is naturally renewable and biodegradable. It is lightweight and resilient as well as stain resistant. Sustainable rattan harvesting also contributes towards supporting livelihoods and local economies that rely on natural resources.
Also made from palm trees, Raffia is an organic, renewable plant fibre. It is sourced from the fronds of the raffia palm tree then sun dried. It is versatile and durable as well as easy to dye.
The soft and pliable nature of palm material makes it perfect to weave and wrap to make light shades.
Wood
One of the most versatile and useful renewable materials. Its availability and absorption of carbon dioxide while growing makes it an highly favoured sustainable and environmentally friendly material.
Bamboo is a strong and durable material it is, in fact one of the hardest woods. It is also resistant to insects and moisture making it an excellent choice for lighting you want to last. We have a range of bamboo lighting varying in shape and size to show just how versatile it is.
Recycled cardboard is also an environmentally friendly alternative to make incredible, stylish and contemporary lighting products.
Vegetable Fibres
Cotton is an all-natural fibre that is easily harvestable, versatile and can be recycled. However, manufacturing of the finished product is not always the most environmentally friendly process. Look for organic cotton which uses a much more sustainable process for picking and processing the fabric.
The entire flax plant can be woven into a fibre. This means that there is almost zero waste product when spinning and weaving linen. Again, make sure you choose organically processed linen made without chemicals or harsh dyes.
Jute is a soft fibre with a silky shine spun from the bark of the jute plant. Grown without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers makes it an excellent eco-friendly and sustainable choice for lighting materials.
Seagrass is a plant that lives underwater all around the UK’s coast. Hand picked and dried in a natural process. Being a natural plant it is both biodegradable and sustainable.
2. Switch to LED Bulbs
LED bulbs are a highly energy efficient lighting technology. They are long-lasting and emit less heat than incandescent bulbs. They can use up to 90% less energy than other bulbs and will last longer offering high quality light output.
Lighting and lights have a range of LED bulbs that will fulfil your lighting needs as well as help reduce your carbon footprint. We also have a range of decorative LED bulbs. So, you can continue your eco-friendly pursuit with all the beauty of the traditional filament bulb.
We also offer a range of ultra modern integrated LED lights, one fitting, no extra bulbs needed. Perfect if you’re a fan of the simple, sleek minimalist look.
3. Install Dimmer Switches
Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the amount of light that your room gets as natural light levels alter during the day.
Being able to adjust the light levels in your home will help to reduce those energy bills. Reducing the wattage will reduce the energy used. This will help to extend the life of your bulbs making your investment into energy efficiency all the more worthwhile.
Lighting and Lights boasts large assortment of dimmable lighting. When paired with suitable bulbs and switches.
4. Consider Strategic Task Lighting
Ask yourself, do I need to light the whole room? Carefully selected, carefully placed lamps can minimise energy usage and allow you to light only the areas that need lighting.
Lamps are a practical option for ambient lighting. Floor lamps placed in corners will cast light inwards and reach areas that natural light is unable to.
Table lamps are also a great option for task lighting. Place them next to armchairs or on bedside tables. They are easy to reach and will shed enough light to read by.
Wall lights can add depth and interest to any room. Wall lights with adjustable arms are perfect for home offices. Their flexibility allows light to be target a specific work space.
Our range of lamps and wall lights are not only practical but beautifully decorative too.
5. Invest in Something you Love
Because of the long life of sustainable materials it is especially important to choose a product that will stand the test of time. You are likely to own it for a long time. For this reason it is important for it to fit with your style. Or, be easily adaptable if you want to make changes to your interior décor.
Luckily, our range of lighting made from these long-lasting, ethical materials are designed with this in mind.
Often kept as their natural colours, lights made from plant-based materials go well with any colour interior. Working well among deep greens or reds surrounded by house plants or with pale blues in a nautical style room.
If you are a fan of the minimalist look. The clean simple shapes and neutral colours of these pieces will make an ideal addition.
The unique designs and rustic look of handmade natural products perfectly complement an eclectic bohemian interior.
Larger eye-catching pieces work well in a cosy snug paired with a fancy bulb for ambient lighting. Or, add to a bright, airy sun room to make a bold statement.
What We Do To Support Sustainability
As a company we understand the importance of creating a brighter future. We are proud to have made some progress in reducing waste and reducing our energy consumption. Our building is fitted with solar panels allowing energy powered by the sun to light our offices and warehouse. The director runs a wholly electric company car and hybrid company van. There is a charging point which is powered by our solar panels used to charged both vehicles. However, we know this is an on going process and will continue to strive to reduce our carbon footprint.
In addition, we seek to partner with brands that mirror our ethical stance regarding sustainability and waste reduction. We have reduced our use of plastic packaging switching to recycled packaging that our neighbouring businesses regard as waste. Furthermore, we currently stock a range of lights that, with every purchased, we pay to plant a tree which helps to create jobs, protect ecosystems and helps to mitigate climate change.
Bring the Outdoors Indoors with Sustainable Lighting
The best thing about the design of these lights are that they are in keeping with the current trend of bringing the outdoors indoors. They look fantastic with indoor plants which have so many benefits not only do they purify the air. But, they can also help relieve stress and anxiety, increase productivity and help you sleep at night. What better way to help improve your mental health than to know that your choice in interior design is also helping to protect the environment.
So, make an investment in something you love and will continue to love for years to come. Remember whatever look you go for, your taste can change so pick something versatile. And, the best thing, if you do fall out of love with it you can sell it on in excellent condition to someone who will continue to love it allowing you to fund your next piece of sustainable lighting.