In line with policy to conserve energy and cut emissions, the European Union this month banned the manufacture and import of 75W incandescent light bulbs in the bloc.

Last year the EU banned the 100W incandescent bulbs, and in September 2011 it will phase out 60W bulbs.

The EU is also gradually phasing out halogen lamps, with a view to completing this in 2013. All incandescent light bulbs as well as halogen ones will ultimately be removed and replaced by LED lights.

The phase-out of incandescent light bulbs is part of the EU's strategy to cut greenhouse gases by 20% by 2020. Replacing the old lamps with more efficient models is expected to reduce energy consumption for lighting by 60% in the EU, equivalent to saving 30 million tons of CO2 pollution every year.

Although energy-saving bulbs were available since 1998, their relatively high purchase price has inhibited take-up When the decision for the ban was taken in 2008, it was estimated that around 2,000 to 3,000 jobs would become redundant in the light bulb industry, in particular affecting Hungary and Poland. However, the European Commission also assumed that halogen production and savings of 5-10 billion euro from energy bills could be injected back into the economy to create new jobs.

In an editorial, the conservative The Washington Times harshly criticised the ban, labelling it a result of "bureaucratic irritation" and a "war on Edison's greatest invention". General criticism of such bans includes panic buying prior to phase-out, environmental impacts of the mercury which is contained in small amounts in all fluorescent lamps, and increased upfront costs for the consumer.

The European Consumers' Organisation however, welcomed the next phase-out stage, but is calling for clearer product information for customers, better energy-saving light bulb recycling provisions and a reduction in CFL mercury levels.

The mercury content in an average CFL is no more than 5mg – which would fit on the tip of a ballpoint pen – but it's still a hazardous material.

Brazil and Venezuela started to phase out incandescent light bulbs in 2005, Switzerland in 2009, while Russia and Canada are planning it for 2012. The United States is scheduled to begin a phaseout similar to the European one from 2012.

uk.ibtimes.com