Should we prioritise energy efficiency over health?

In an increasingly sustainability-conscious world, energy efficiency has become a priority for many governments. However, this priority raises a crucial question: Should we put energy efficiency before health? This debate is intensified by growing evidence that certain lighting technologies, while energy-efficient, can have adverse effects on our health.

The Science Behind Healthy Light

The human body depends on natural light to regulate its circadian rhythms: our internal biological clock that dictates sleep and wake cycles, the release of hormones and other vital functions. Healthy lighting fixtures, designed to mimic natural light, have several spectral distributions modulated by the controls They can provide rich in 480nm blue light which promotes alertness and productivity during the day, and emit little blue light at night, which helps with melatonin production and better sleep.

Conventional LEDs, unfortunately, maintain a high blue light content throughout the day and night, which disrupts our sleep and our overall health.

The Case of the United States: An Example

Last week I read an article by Dr. Martin Moore-Ede titled “Banned in the US: Healthy Light Bulbs” and it is a recent example of when efficiency is prioritised over health. The Department of Energy's (DOE) decision to implement new energy efficiency rules that will go into effect in June 2028 has sparked controversy. These rules prioritise blue light-rich LEDs and overlook critical health concerns. Although this is a specific case for the United States, it raises a relevant question for other regions, including Europe. I wonder what would happen if similar regulations were considered. Should energy efficiency be put before the health of human beings?

Health Implications

Ignoring the specific wavelengths necessary for circadian health could have widespread implications. Blue-rich LEDs used at night suppress melatonin, disrupt sleep, and are linked to several health problems such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. The Recent decision of the U.S. Department of Energy focuses on lumens per watt as a measure of energy efficiency. However, this metric doesn't tell the full story.

It is important to understand that Tunable White (TW) fixtures can display more lumens per watt compared to other technologies. This is due to its ability to adjust the intensity and colour temperature (CCT) throughout the day, more accurately mimicking natural light. Despite this fact, TW luminaires do not necessarily consume more energy. As they are designed to be regulated and maintain an environment suitable for the human circadian rhythm, their effective consumption is usually less than the nominal. This comprehensive approach not only improves energy efficiency but also supports the health and well-being of users.

By prioritising high lumens per watt without considering health impact, current regulations could perpetuate the availability of technologies that compromise our long-term well-being. European and global policies must take a balanced approach that values both energy efficiency and human health, ensuring that lighting options promote a safe and healthy environment for all. While energy efficiency is important, it should not come at the expense of our health.?

A Call to Action in Europe

Europe is in a unique position to lead a balanced approach to light regulation. European policymakers must consider both energy efficiency and the critical need for healthy lighting. It is essential to review and adjust regulations to ensure that healthy lighting options remain available and accessible.

As we move towards a future increasingly dominated by artificial lighting, it is crucial to prioritise our health along with energy savings. We must advocate for regulations that support not only a greener planet but also healthier lives. Europe has the opportunity to pioneer this holistic approach, ensuring that its citizens do not have to choose between energy efficiency and well-being.