Fluorescent Lighting in Canada is Over
Canada has officially banned the manufacturing and import of products containing mercury, starting with fluorescent lighting solutions. In response to the proven impacts of mercury on health and the environment, the government is requiring industries and communities to transition to more sustainable lighting alternatives, and is supporting them in their move to LED technology.
What Are the Health and Environmental Risks of Mercury?
Mercury poses a significant threat to both the environment and vulnerable populations. International organizations have raised alarms about the dangers of this toxic substance, which is still found in many products.
Soil and Water Pollution and Human Health Impacts
Mercury has alarming effects on the environment, particularly through contamination of aquatic ecosystems and poisoning of marine life. A 2023 UN study highlights the severe risks to biodiversity, fisheries, and local communities exposed to mercury. It also reveals the spread of mercury pollution to mining soils in tropical forests and industrial zones in the High Arctic.
Mercury bioaccumulation in the food chain is a major health risk for consumers and the environment. It is especially dangerous for unborn children exposed in utero. Mercury is also known to damage the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as organs such as the lungs and kidneys.
International Measures Now Being Enforced in Canada
The UN’s Minamata Convention, along with other international protocols, has recommended strict limitations on mercury use. In line with these global efforts, Canadian regulations are evolving toward a ban on mercury-containing fluorescent tubes in favour of LED technology.
What Are LEDs?
LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are lighting devices that use semiconductors to emit light when an electric current passes through them. They are known for their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and lower environmental impact compared to traditional lighting sources like fluorescent tubes.
Conversion to LEDs: An Environmental and Public Health Priority
The scientific community and international organizations agree on the need to eliminate mercury from many products, especially fluorescent tubes. The Canadian government aims to help industries and public institutions switch to LED lighting, which is not only safer for health and the environment but also more durable. LEDs, composed of multiple light-emitting diodes, are known for their low energy consumption, reduced carbon footprint, and lifespan of up to 40,000 hours.
Did you know that buildings with outdated lighting systems may qualify for subsidies to support their LED conversion projects? Thanks to funding strategies developed by our experts, the investment required for these upgrades can, in some cases, be equivalent to the cost of replacing traditional fluorescent lighting.
Environmental Benefits of LED Technology
There are three main reasons why Canadian industries and public decision-makers should move away from fluorescent lighting:
- Energy Efficiency: LED lighting uses less energy, reducing both costs and CO₂ emissions.
- Durability and Longevity: LEDs last longer, meaning fewer replacements and less waste.
- Safety and Environmental Impact: Fewer hazardous materials, less pollution, and reduced health and environmental risks.
Public and Industrial Lighting: Three Reasons to Switch to LEDs
LED lighting offers several advantages for both private and public sector stakeholders:
- Lower Operating Costs: Savings on energy bills and reduced maintenance and replacement expenses.
- Improved Lighting Quality: Brighter, more uniform light with less glare, customizable colour temperature, and adjustable brightness.
- Positive Environmental Impact: Lower CO₂ emissions help reduce carbon footprints and support sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals.
Equans Supports Your Transition to LED Lighting
Equans Services helps industrial clients modernize their lighting systems. For example, in Washington D.C., Equans is contributing to the largest public lighting modernization project in the U.S., helping the city reduce energy consumption by 50% and improve urban safety through LED lighting.
More Examples of LED Conversion Projects
- Airport Lighting:
- Runway and terminal lighting upgrades at Bordeaux Mérignac Airport in France.
- CO₂ emissions reduction at Geneva Airport in Switzerland through optimized ground energy use.
- Smart Building Technologies: Integration of LED lighting to enhance energy efficiency and occupant comfort in intelligent buildings.
- Outdoor Public Lighting: Replacement of outdated public lighting systems in the UK and at EV charging stations with more energy-efficient LED solutions.
