Masters of Health Magazine July 2018 | Page 100

Besides the fact that the metrics in lighting about energy are a toxic inheritance (that comes from the photometric definition of the lumen and the lux in 1924), my criteria is that we should be more aware about human sustainability. We can save a lot of energy, but if this goes in detriment of our life, we are taking the short run and we forget about the long-term consequences for our health, and therefore for our economies.

Even if the metrics for lighting quality in terms of health are still to be properly defined, my advice is that next time that you think about light lamps and lighting for your house and/or your work/leisure spaces you should go beyond pure price and energy savings, and begin to realize that light/lighting is a critical environmental factor that affects your health. The more you differ from natural lighting conditions, in terms of timing and spectrum, the worse it is going to be for your health.

If this topic is of your interest, I have been honored to talk at the 2018 USA “Lighting for Health & Wellbeing Conference” that takes place in Newport Beach, California, the next 18th of July. See you there!

http://lightingforhealthandwellbeing.com/usa/speakers/