Light bulbs to go out on September 1, saving the environment and money, says South West MEP

By PRSD, on Friday, August 28, 2009

It’s lights out for incandescent light bulbs greater than 85 watts on Tuesday, September 1, and South West Lib Dem is glowing about out the prospective cut of nearly 5 million tonnes of CO2 and household savings of £55 per year that this will herald.

On Tuesday, 1 September, incandescent light bulbs greater than 85 watts will be taken out of circulation, although shops will still be able to sell their current stocks. All incandescent bulbs will be removed from the market by 2012 to pave the way for energy efficient lighting.

Research commissioned by Together.com, an organisation part of the Climate Group, estimated that when the change over is complete, cuts in the UK’s CO2 emissions will be the equivalent of taking two million cars off the road per year. And offers an annual saving of £2.62 per bulb, what with

Graham Watson told the PRSD: “Europe-wide savings produced by this ban will negate the need for the equivalent of almost six Hinkley B nuclear power stations; plus all the toxic waste and de-commissioning costs that come with them.

“Increasing energy efficiency is crucial to cutting CO2 emissions and protecting the environment. But this is an example of how coordinated responses to environmental challenges can also provide immediate help to hard-up households.”

He said: “Energy saving light bulbs contain mercury, and need to be disposed of properly. Many retailers will do this for free, and I strongly urge people to take them up on the offer.”

posted by Cptn

• Will you miss the old light bulbs, or will you make up with it by being incandescent with rage? Comments below, please.