IKEA calls for consumers to change their light bulbs

IKEA is encouraging consumers to switch to LED light bulbs, described by the company as a simple task which “plays a significant role in creating a more sustainable world”.

The guide explains that IKEA wants to have a positive impact on the environment, which is why LED is now the only kind of lighting the company sells. It also outlines the advantages of LED lighting, such as:

• LED light sources will last for between 15,000 and 25,000 h.
• LED bulbs can last as long as 20 years - 20 times longer than traditional incandescent types.
• LED bulbs use 85% less energy.
• A 7 W LED bulb feels like a 40 W incandescent bulb, allowing you to save energy without sacrificing brightness.
• LED light bulbs are versatile, offer a range of ‘colour’ from cool to warm, and some are dimmable.
• LED light bulbs come in all shapes and sizes, from chandelier, globe and A-shaped or downlights.

For every LED light bulb purchased in IKEA Australia stores from now until the end of March, the IKEA Foundation will donate €1 to The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). These funds will allow UNHRC to provide refugee camps in Asia, Africa and the Middle East with solar-powered street lights and lanterns, making them a safer, more suitable place for the families who live there.

IKEA also offers a free recycling service for old, non-LED lights. Customers may bring their old halogen, CFL or incandescent bulbs to the in-store customer recycling wall (usually positioned near the cash line/exit doors) and the company will recycle the lights for you.

Additionally, IKEA plans to be 100% renewable by 2020 - by producing as much renewable energy as it consume - using the wind and sun. The company is also making its buildings more efficient, so they need less energy to run them.