January 14, 2009

UK Consumers Stock Up On Incandescents Before Phaseout

British consumers are stocking up on incandescent 100W bulbs after they heard that the UK is supporting the EU’s decision to eventually ban them from stores, writes the Telegraph.

A number of stores, including John Lewis, Asda and Homebase, have already sold out, and many other stores have just small stock left.

With general consumer support to go green, why are some people stocking up on the traditional, less-efficient bulbs? CFL critics cite a number of reasons. Some need clear bulbs for fixtures like chandeliers; others might be worried that the new CFL bulbs are too dim or expensive.

For others, however, this switch could actually pose major problems. Migraine sufferers, for example, are particularly light-sensitive. The Migraine Action Association is recommending to the 10% of people in the UK that suffer from migraines to stock up on incandescent bulbs. CFL bulbs can also cause seizures in people with epilepsy, and they have been linked to a worsening of Seasonal Affective Disorder symptoms.

Currently, the incandescent bulb ban is only voluntary, but UK stores could be fined for selling them starting in 2016.

In the United States, there has also been a push to use CFL bulbs, and many companies, like Wal-Mart and Home Depot, are making the switch. Some lighting ban legislation has already been introduced in states such as California.

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