CFL (compact fluorescent) light bulbs have now been widely available on the market for almost a decade but I’m still surprised that they haven’t been more fully embraced by consumers/businesses as a matter of course. The bulbs not only use about 80% less energy but they also last between 5 to 10 times longer than the traditional incandescent light bulb. Many nations have already (or will shortly) ban the sale and import of the old less efficient incandescents including Argentina, Switzerland, Ireland and the UK. Meanwhile in North America we are seeing initiatives phasing out the old technology on a province by province or state by state basis which leads to a much slower progression toward the new technology.

I feel that governments should accelerate the process as the energy savings (and cost savings) for users are far more than moderate and not debatable. Delays have been blamed upon infrastructure costs and impacts on the retail market – but a ban on sales of the old technology would surely benefit the vast majority. I fear that waiting for regional governments to approve such changes one by one could result in incandescents remaining on the market for another decade.

IKEA have just made an announcement which could drive the change by proxy as the company announced they will no longer stock or sell incandescent light bulbs effective immediately making them the first large retailer in this market to take this step. IKEA have blossomed into being the world’s largest retailer of home furnishings with over 300 of their giant stores dotted around the world in addition to their huge online presence.  IKEA US President Mike Ward stated:

“IKEA is committed to integrating sustainable practices into our business practices … and [is] constantly looking at ways to help support our customers with everyday environmentally responsible solutions that will improve their lives. Eliminating incandescents is just one simple way for IKEA customers to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gases.”

While on the surface this may seem like a simple and fairly small gesture from the retailer I think it sets the bar for what other retailers can do to change the market despite necessary regulation arguably lagging behind. Ideally we’ll witness a domino effect and the idea of using anything other than a CFL bulbs deemed ludicrous in the not too distant future. Domestic and commercial energy use for (standard) lighting stands to reduce electricity use by some 80% not to mention very significant costs savings (estimated at $40 per unit over the life of the bulb) it seems a huge win-win and a great decision by IKEA.