Fluorescent and halogen bulb phase out
In 2023 the final stages of the phasing out procedure for certain types of bulbs will take place, with flourescent and halogen lighting products being added to the list with incandescent bulbs no longer available to buy in Europe and the UK.
These changes are primarily as a result of the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) (in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (2012) (the RoHS regulations), aswell as Ecodesign Directive (Directive 2009/125/EC).
Contents |
[edit] 2006 incandescent
In September 2016 the manufacture of all incandescent light bulbs in Europe was banned, although residual stock continued to be available.
This was one result of the European Union's Ecodesign Directive (Directive 2009/125/EC); a framework setting mandatory ecological requirements for the sale of over 40 categories of energy-using and energy-related products. Any energy-using product (EuP) being required to reduce energy consumption and negative environmental impact by design. The main aim being to reduce energy use, but also material, water, pollution, and waste.
[edit] 2019 halogen
In September 2019 the halogen light bulb ban came into force. As with the earlier ban the manufacture of these bulbs was banned, with some exceptions for specialist applications, though the use of exsting stocks was not.
This was also a result of the European Union's Ecodesign Directive (Directive 2009/125/EC) to reduce energy consumption levels aswell as the RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU restricting the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment, in particular polybrominated biphenyl flame retardants (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE).
In Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2012 (as amended) are the underpinning legislation. However, there are differences in how they apply in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
[edit] 2023 flourescent
In February 2023 ring formed flourescent lamps (T5 T9) and compact flourescent lamps with a plug in base (CFlni) were banned from manufacture aswell as importation.
In August 2023 flourescent lamp tubes (T5 and T8) are banned from manufacture aswell as importation
In September Halogen pins G4, GY6.35, G9) are banned from manufacture aswell as importation.
The ban on flourescent lamp is a direct result of the RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU restricting the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment, in particular the low levels of Mercury contained in such bulbs.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Electrical and electronic equipment
- End of life potential.
- Environmental impact assessment EIA.
- Environmental plan for building design and construction.
- Glossary of electrical terms.
- Hire, reclaim and reuse scheme combats construction waste.
- How to conduct a pre-demolition audit.
- Plastic and recycling.
- Recycling explained.
- Types of plastic in construction.
- Waste and Resources Action Programme WRAP.
- Waste hierarchy.
- Waste management plan for England.
Featured articles and news
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.