CLiC July 2023 Newsletter
Africa Region Galvanizes Efforts to End Mercury Lighting
In May, 39 countries representing the Africa Region proposed a new amendment to phase out all remaining fluorescent lamps under the Minamata Convention. If adopted, the Amendment will effectively end the manufacture, export and import of all fluorescent lighting by 2026, resulting in significant reductions in mercury pollution, CO2 emissions and energy costs. Learn more.
U.S. Clean Lighting Momentum Grows Across 5 States, representing 14.5% of the US market
Across the U.S., state legislation is quickly phasing out fluorescent lighting in favor of more efficient, mercury-free LEDs. Colorado became the third US state to commit to a 2025 phase out of fluorescent bulbs; Hawaii’s clean lighting bill awaits Governor Green’s signature; and the Rhode Island House of Representatives unanimously agreed to pass legislation to phase out fluorescents by 2025 – the bill is now headed into the RI Senate.
Learn About South Africa’s Clean Lighting Transition
South Africa is a leader in Africa’s clean lighting transition – the Clean Lighting Coalition recently released South Africa’s Lighting Profile with national level data on the benefits of a country-wide transition to LEDs and insights into clean lighting efforts in the country. See more on the Africa Clean Lighting page.
Roadmap for a Mercury-Free Lighting Transition in Japan
Despite commitments to phase-down mercury use, based on their submission to the Minamata secretariat, Japan is on a path to stall efforts under the Minamata Convention to phase-out mercury-containing fluorescents. Current national policies limit LED accessibility for Japanese consumers, slowing the market progress towards 100% mercury-free lighting.
Learn how Japan can join global efforts to phase-out fluorescent lighting and accelerate a domestic transition to LEDs.
Benefits of a Fluorescent Phaseout – Pacific Island Nations
The continued sale of fluorescent lighting in the Pacific Islands poses imminent risks to the people and ecosystems already facing some of the worst impacts of climate change. By supporting an accelerated phase-out of fluorescent lighting at the upcoming Minamata Convention COP5, Ministers of the Pacific Island Nations can protect citizens from mercury exposure, lower energy bills, and support Net Zero targets. Learn more.