A reader wrote to me today inquiring about the fate of the incandescent light bulb. Apparently, in trying to purchase a certain kind of light fixture, this reader discovered that the fixture base was being phased out because it used standard incandescent light bulbs (and likely could not accomodate an energy efficient bulb). As promised, I did some research in response to her questions and, yes, standard incandescent light bulbs are being phased off the U.S. Market beginning in 2012 under an energy law approved by Congress late in 2007.
It's Friday, Tip Day for ways to 'Give The Boot To Our Carbon Footprints'. In 2008 my New Year 
Resolution is to 'show gratitude' for my blessings by 'giving back' and the environment is one of my recipients. I dedicate three columns each week to news and information about small, daily steps we can take to reduce our Carbon Footprints. Consider the huge, positive, long-range impact on the environment if each one of us performs 'habitual' actions - like driving fewer miles, using more energy efficient light bulbs, and turning off lights when we leave rooms. My goal, as an individual, is to urge others to follow my lead, and take a few small steps each and every day toward protecting the environment.
A lot of folks are probably in the dark about the fate of the light bulb. I was until this reader dropped me a note. According to a U.S. News & World Report article posted on December 19, 2007, incandescent light bulbs are being phased out to reduce electricity costs:
"Moving to more efficient lighting is one of the lowest-cost ways for the nation to reduce electricity use and greenhouse gases. In fact, it actually will save households money because of lower utility bills. Ninety percent of the energy that an incandescent light bulb burns is wasted as heat. And yet, sales of the most common high-efficiency bulb available—the compact fluorescent (CFL)—amount to only 5 percent of the light bulb market. Earlier this year, Australia became the first country to announce an outright ban by 2010 on incandescent bulbs. The changeover in the United States will be more gradual, not mandated to begin until 2012 and phased out through 2014. However, don't be surprised if some manufacturers phase out earlier...."
If you're interested in learning more about the phase out, here are additional website links and articles:
- U.S. News & World Report - FAQ: The End Of The Light Bulb As We Know It - USNewsLightBulbsDec07.pdf
- U.S. News & World Report - Light Bulb Revolt: Incandescent Fans Rise Up - Download USNewsLightBulbsJan08.pdf
- USA Today - It's Lights Out For Traditional Light Bulbs - USATodayLightBulbDec07.pdf
Remember: I Resolve To . . . Achieve My New Year Resolutions, One Resolution, One Day At A Time For One Year. It's your choice. Do it today. Turn your resolution into reality in five simple, common sense steps: Dare To Dream, Decide, Define, Develop A Plan, and Do It Daily. Make your resolution a permanent Lifetime Resolution, something that's with you for good! Above all, Be A Resolutionista, someone who makes resolutions, keeps resolutions, and enjoys the journey! Let's Go For It!
Need More Inspiration? Wear Your Resolution! Make Every Day New Year's Day. Make Every Day Count. Visit my resolution shop by clicking this link: http://www.cafepress.com/iresolveto
Kim M. Simpson - June 6, 2008
Copyright © I Resolve To™ . . . * All Rights Reserved
Comments