Lighting supplier calls for education on energy efficiency

Lighting manufacturer Philips is proud to see the Australian government take the lead on energy efficiency, but calls on the government to help prepare Australians for the plan to phase out inefficient incandescent lighting products in November 2008.

Philips Lighting Australia general manager Michael Downie said the company is committed to sustainability and fully supports the government’s initiative to make Australia a global leader in energy efficiency. However, Philips is concerned that the average consumer will be taken by surprise when they visit the shop to purchase household light globes, as most are still unaware of the impending change’s effect on their day-to-day lives.

“Philips wants consumers and businesses to understand the positive benefits of changing, both to their budgets and the environment — and start switching over now rather than wait until the last possible changeover day,” he said. “We believe the only way to achieve this is for government and industry bodies to work collaboratively on a comprehensive education program. An education plan will help change the average person’s perception of the traditional energy-efficient light globe and ease any resistance to the change.”