“What is sustainable lighting and how can I utilize it?”
Artificial lighting can be green simply by switching to more efficient light sources. Light fixtures available on the market today include higher efficiency Light Emitting Diodes (LED). LED lighting is undergoing rapid development and is making great strides. LEDs offer long life, wide color range options, and more flexible control, but are not appropriate for every situation. Even the most efficient light fixture consumes more energy than one that is turned off, so pay particular attention to method of control. Harness natural light whenever possible.
Careful design of natural light elements prevents unwanted glare and solar heat gain. Incorporating passive control surfaces more evenly distributes sunlight and omits harmful glare. Use of automatic controls can shut off or dim artificial lighting based on the amount of daylight entering a space, time of day, or current occupancy. Time clocks or full calendar control software ensure that artificial lighting is used only when necessary.
Harvesting daylight creates high quality environments while reducing energy demands. Task lighting allows for individual control and increased energy savings when designed with indirect, low level ambient light. This concentrates light where and when it is needed.
