CSR

Energy-saving (or -wasting) lightbulbs?

WAIT, BUT I THOUGHT…

Energy-saving lightbulbs (or CFLs, “compact fluorescent lamps“) are supposed to be good for the environment, right? Better than those traditional, incandescent fixtures, right?

They last longer, they save money, they use less electricity, they reduce greenhouse gas emissions…and they’re also becoming hip and trendy among Generation Y and Hollywood stars (Julia Louis-Dreyfus, a.k.a. Elaine from “Seinfeld,” distributed Phillips energy-saving bulbs to every graduating student at Northwestern University’s commencement ceremony. See? Even the kids are into it!)

But according to some skeptics, there’s a darker side to this supposedly eco-friendly invention.

WHAT A WASTE?

The merits of CFLs depends on what’s involved in the process of manufacturing, shipping and selling the product.

Scientists often point out the harmful effects of mercury.

And let’s not forget there was a recall of Chinese-manufactured Teng Fei Energy Saving Light Bulbs, back in 2004, because it posed a fire hazard.

There are also all those costs associated with the transportation of the bulbs (over THOUSANDS of miles) and then the inevitable (and potentially hazardous) disposal of them in overcrowded landfills.

BRIGHT IDEAS FOR CHINA

Here’s a list of Mainland China manufacturers and trading companies that sell energy-saving light bulbs.

In 2005, China produced a total of 1.76 billion energy-saving lights, accounting for 90% of the world’s total. Out of these, 70% were exported, according to figures from the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

You can read all about China’s government plan for efficient lighting at the “Green Lights Project” home page.

BEING RESPONSIBLE

Some companies are trying to be responsible about the shift toward these “green” lights. MEGAMAN, a German brand, claims that it tries its best to keep environmental costs low.

MEGAMAN sells nine different brands of its energy-saving “lamps,” including the innovative DorS DIMMING series.

Here’s a snazzy 8-minute video on YouTube about a MEGAMAN factory in Xiamen, China.

What do you think: RESPONSIBLE OR NOT?

Megaman Factory in China

Megaman Factory, Xiamen, China.
Megaman energy-saving lightbulbs - or ‘lamps’ as they prefer to call them - are manufactured across several sites in Xiamen, China - from raw materials to finished product.
Gavin Hill was hired to make a video showcasing Megaman’s state-of-the-art processes for screening at trade lighting exhibitions worldwide.
The video was edited in Bangkok, Thailand.
Client: Megaman.
Produced, directed and filmed in Xiamen, China by Gavin Hill.
Creative Consultant: Gordon Tan.

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