The adoption of LED lighting is an obvious example of how these regulations have already changed the lighting industry.
What is fluorescent lighting?
Fluorescent lamps have long been a popular choice for lighting. However, these lamps contain mercury, which poses significant environmental risks if mishandled or disposed of improperly. When broken or discarded in landfills, fluorescent lamps release mercury vapor, which is toxic to both humans and the environment. Mercury can accumulate in water bodies and harm aquatic life.
Phasing out fluorescent lamps and tubes
Recognizing the potential harm posed by fluorescent lamps, the UK has taken a proactive approach to phase them out under the UK version of the RoHS Directive. The RoHS Directive, first introduced in 2003 and revised in 2011, aims to restrict the use of specific hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). These substances include lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The directive has been instrumental in minimizing the negative impact of EEE waste on the environment and human health. Phasing out fluorescent lamps will reduce the overall mercury content in waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and promote the adoption of safer and more sustainable lighting alternatives.
When are fluorescent lamps being phased out?
Not all lamps are being phased out at the same time, and there are some exceptions to the rules. New lamps will not be allowed to be placed on the market from the exemption dates, however some suppliers may still have stock available after these dates.
Traditional fluorescent lighting (T5, T8 and CFL), common in public buildings and offices will be phased out from September 2023. Some specialist lamps are not being phased out until 2025 and even 2027.
Note: Some T8 lamps (2’, 4’ & 5’) will already have been phased out by eco-design legislation in September 2023.
How to transition from fluorescent lamps
If you are unsure about which lamps are affected by the regulations, The Lighting Industry Association has produced a useful guide.
If you currently use fluorescent lamps in your buildings, it is essential to stay proactive during this transition. Will you need new light fittings or are LED retrofit lamps available? We recommend auditing your inventory and consulting with your suppliers to ensure they have availably to meet your lighting requirements. Many lighting manufacturers and distributors offer a wide range of energy-efficient alternatives such as LEDs that can provide similar or even superior lighting performance.
How can YPO help?
YPO’s 1087 Low Energy Lighting DPS can help you procure the design, supply and fit and/ or maintenance of internal and external low energy lighting systems. Contact our Buildings procurement team for FREE advice here.
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