Are You In Compliance?
Did you know that… in addition to incandescent light bulbs, certain types of fluorescent and halogen bulbs have also been discontinued?
Congress has passed multiple rounds of legislation addressing the energy efficiency of lighting fixtures, ballasts, and lamps (light bulbs and fluorescent tubes) over the past several years. Recent federal legislation includes the 2005 Energy Policy Act (EPAct) and the 2007 Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA).
Certain types of ballasts and high-wattage reflector lamps already have been phased out and have not been produced recently. In 2012 the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will begin enforcing the first phase of the most noticeable changes which include a gradual halt in the production of incandescent A-line lamps, as well as many inefficient linear fluorescent and halogen parabolic aluminized reflector (PAR) lamps.
While changes in the lighting industry have been in the works for some time now, many people are still uninformed about the impending shift in lighting requirements. In fact, the results of a recent lighting manufacturer survey show that as many as 65 percent of consumers are unaware of the new lighting standards effective in 2012.
Residential consumers are not the only ones who will be affected by new regulations. According to the DOE and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lighting in industrial and commercial buildings accounts for close to 71 percent of overall lighting electricity use in the U.S. and consumes nearly 35 percent of the electricity used in the nation’s commercial buildings. Clearly, these changes in lighting regulations are of significant importance to businesses as well as residences.
Midwest Environmental Services can help you properly dispose of outdated light bulbs when upgrading your lighting systems. Our Universal Waste Program includes removal and proper recycling and disposal of all types of light bulbs, ballasts, batteries and mercury containing equipment. Contact your sales representative or our customer service department for more information or to schedule removal of your old bulbs.
Want more information on Midwest Environmental Services? Contact us online for more information, or call 800-388-5160.