Earth Day is the perfect time to rethink how we illuminate our homes and workplaces. Lighting plays a major role in global energy consumption and environmental impact, but by making mindful choices, we can reduce our carbon footprint. Sustainable lighting focuses on energy efficiency, responsible material choices, and long-lasting design. From eco-friendly materials to B-Corp certified brands and British-made craftsmanship, discover how you can light up your space while protecting the planet.
What is Sustainable Lighting?
Sustainable lighting is a thoughtful approach to lighting design, where every stage of production is considered—from materials and manufacturing to packaging, energy use, and end-of-life disposal. By making small but powerful changes, such as choosing LED bulbs, supporting brands with circular economy initiatives, and opting for locally-made lighting, we can all contribute to a greener future.
Key Principles of Sustainable Lighting
-
Energy Efficiency
Incorporating LED technology reduces power consumption by up to 75% compared to traditional bulbs while lasting significantly longer. -
Longevity & Repairability
Choosing high-quality, handcrafted lighting with repairable components ensures fixtures last for years, reducing waste. -
Modular & Circular Design
Adaptable fixtures with replaceable parts allow for easy upgrades and prevent unnecessary waste. -
Recyclability & Circular Economy
Ensuring that lighting fixtures can be easily disassembled and repurposed reduces landfill waste and supports a circular design model.
-
Considered Materials
Selecting FSC-certified wood, recycled metals, and eco-friendly components ensures minimal environmental impact while maintaining an elegant aesthetic.
Eco-Friendly Lighting Brands
Sustainable Craftsmanship
An important part of sustainable lighting is choosing materials that are responsibly sourced, and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification is one of the most reliable indicators. FSC-certified wood ensures that the wood used in lighting fixtures and furniture comes from responsibly managed forests that prioritise environmental, social, and economic sustainability. By supporting brands with FSC certification, you’re helping to protect forests, biodiversity, and communities worldwide, making a positive impact with your purchase.
• Umage where Beautiful Danish design meets affordability using FSC-certified wood, recycled fabrics and they offer a circular subscription plan.
• Secto Design crafts elegant lighting using sustainably sourced Finnish birch, ensuring responsible forestry practices.
• Stuart Lamble based in the UK, handcrafts fixtures from FSC-certified wood, blending natural beauty with a low environmental impact.
B-Corp Certified Lighting
For those looking to support businesses that meet the highest social and environmental standards, B-Corp certification is key.
• Tala specialises in energy-efficient LED bulbs while actively contributing to reforestation projects.
• Nkuku collaborates with global artisans to create stunning, handcrafted lighting from sustainable materials.
Recycling & Circular Economy
• Orluna operate as a fully circular business, offering a 20-year repair and reuse guarantee to extend the life of its products.
• Original BTC produces timeless, high-quality lighting with a strong commitment to sustainable production and recyclability.
• Umage beautiful Danish design meets affordability using FSC-certified wood, recycled fabrics and they offer a circular subscription plan.
Why Recycling Alone Isn't Enough
While recycling reduces waste, it still requires significant energy to transform materials into new products. By choosing longer-lasting, repairable lighting, you invest in quality over quantity, reducing overall consumption.
The Ecological Impact of Lighting
Energy Consumption
• Lighting accounts for 15% of global electricity use and 5% of greenhouse gas emissions (IEA, 2018).
• Traditional incandescent bulbs convert only 5% of energy into light, wasting the rest as heat.
Light Pollution
• Excessive urban lighting disrupts natural darkness, affects human sleep cycles, and interferes with wildlife behavior.
Sustainable Lighting Solutions
• LED bulbs consume 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs.
• Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) are more efficient than incandescent bulbs but not as long-lasting as LEDs.
Buy British: Supporting Local Lighting Brands
Choosing British-made lighting supports local businesses and reduces carbon emissions associated with shipping. These brands combine craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovative design:
• David Hunt – Handmade, durable lighting crafted with heritage techniques.
• Fritz Fryer – Specialising in restored antique and bespoke lighting to reduce waste. (Available in store)
• Glow – Creating stylish, energy-efficient lighting solutions. (Available in store).
• Orluna – A leader in sustainable LED lighting with circular design principles.
• Original BTC – High-quality British-made lighting with a focus on sustainability.
• Stuart Lamble – Inspired by nature, crafting wooden lighting using responsible materials.
By opting for British-made, high-quality lighting, you support sustainable production and reduce environmental impact.
Light Up Sustainably This Earth Day
Switching to sustainable lighting is a simple but impactful step towards a greener future. Whether you choose ethically-made lighting fixtures, B-Corp certified brands, or repairable designs, you can make a difference.
This Earth Day, let’s illuminate our spaces responsibly and invest in lighting that lasts, protects the planet, and enhances our homes.
Explore these brands and make an eco-conscious choice today!
