Hawaii Energy is reminding us of new laws aimed to "protect the environment" but failing to disclose serious ramifications in a negative way on human health.
I would like to remind them, that taking care of the humans is also important. Have you noticed your eyes getting worse at a faster rate? Having trouble sleeping with medication? Seem more moody?
These can all be affects of blue light, and we are about to get even more of it. Some even theorize neuro-degenerative effects (poor memory, dementia, Alzheimer's)
There are known "red light supplementation" methods, that I have not run it to ground yet, but will advise in a new article, when I get past the "solar rush".
https://www.verywellhealth.com/red-light-therapy-5217767
Blue light increases Dopamine, which is one of the most important Neurotransmitters which then affect hormones. But too much Dopamine, can lead to dis-regulation which can cause problems.
Your first step: Change the settings on your computer monitors and phones, it''s usually called a "night light" setting and you can control the times it is on or off. I recommend "on" at 10AM, off at 6AM or when you wake up.
Ask AI, it can help you make these settings changes. It's simple, free, and may have serious benefits.
----------------------------------------------------- A-Eye
Fluorescent lighting and LED lighting differ in terms of blue light emission, and the comparison has implications for eye health, sleep patterns, and overall lighting quality. Here's a detailed breakdown:
1. Blue Light Content in Fluorescent Lighting
Fluorescent lights emit light by exciting phosphors with ultraviolet (UV) light. The phosphors determine the visible light spectrum emitted.
Blue light is present in fluorescent lighting, especially in cool white or daylight fluorescent bulbs (CCTs > 5000K), as they are designed to mimic natural daylight.
The blue light intensity in fluorescent lighting is generally lower than in many LEDs, but it still contributes to eye strain and potential circadian rhythm disruption if used in high-intensity settings or during evening hours.
2. Blue Light Content in LED Lighting
LED lights emit light in a way that often results in more concentrated blue light, especially in cool white or daylight LEDs (CCTs > 4000K).
Blue light in LEDs arises from the underlying blue-emitting diodes combined with phosphors that convert some of the blue light into other colors (to create white light).
LEDs designed with higher correlated color temperatures (CCT) emit significantly more blue light compared to fluorescent lighting.
3. Key Differences in Blue Light Emission
Feature Fluorescent Lighting LED Lighting
Blue Light Intensity Moderate, varies with CCT Often higher, especially at higher CCTs (5000K+)
Spectrum Broader spectrum, less "spiky" Narrower spectrum, concentrated blue peak (at ~450 nm)
CCT Range Typically 2700K–6500K Wider range, from <2000K to >6500K
Tuning Options Limited Tunable white or "warm" LEDs reduce blue light
4. Health Implications
Eye Strain:
Both fluorescent and LED lights can cause eye strain due to blue light, but LEDs may pose a greater risk because of their more concentrated blue light emissions.
Fluorescent lights also flicker at a frequency that can contribute to visual discomfort.
Circadian Rhythm Disruption:
Exposure to blue light at night from either fluorescent or LED lights can suppress melatonin production, leading to sleep disturbances.
LED lighting, especially in cool or daylight colors, has a stronger effect on circadian rhythms than fluorescent lighting.
Long-Term Risks:
Prolonged exposure to blue light from either source may increase the risk of retinal damage or contribute to macular degeneration over time.
5. Efficiency and Practical Considerations
Energy Efficiency:
LEDs are far more energy-efficient than fluorescent lights and have a longer lifespan.
Customization:
LEDs offer more control options, such as tunable white light or "circadian-friendly" features, which can minimize blue light exposure.
Cost:
While LEDs have a higher upfront cost, their energy savings and longevity make them more cost-effective in the long run.
6. Mitigating Blue Light Exposure
Whether using fluorescent or LED lighting, you can reduce blue light exposure by:
Choosing warmer color temperatures (2700K–3000K) for indoor use, especially in bedrooms and evening spaces.
Using blue-light-blocking filters or coatings on lights or devices.
Limiting evening exposure by dimming lights or switching to red-spectrum lighting in the late evening.
Using "flicker-free" LEDs to minimize strain from both blue light and flicker.
Conclusion
LEDs emit more blue light than fluorescent lights, especially at higher color temperatures (4000K and above). However, LEDs are more energy-efficient and customizable, making them a better choice overall when used responsibly.
To minimize blue light exposure, opt for warm white LEDs (2700K–3000K) or fluorescent bulbs with lower CCTs, and consider additional safeguards such as dimming or blue light filters.
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Recent research has highlighted broader health concerns associated with blue light exposure, including its impact on dopamine production. Here are three studies that explore these effects:
"Blue Light's Brain Impact: Cognitive and Emotional Effects"
Summary: This study examines how blue light exposure influences brain function, particularly focusing on cognitive performance, alertness, and mood regulation. It suggests that blue light can stimulate dopamine release, affecting mood and motivation.
Link: Blue Light's Brain Impact: Cognitive and Emotional Effects
"Blue Light Exposure: Ocular Hazards and Prevention—A Narrative Review"
Summary: This review discusses the potential ocular hazards of blue light exposure, including its effects on retinal health and the possible modulation of neurotransmitters like dopamine. It emphasizes the need for protective strategies against blue light-induced ocular injury.
Link: Blue Light Exposure: Ocular Hazards and Prevention—A Narrative Review
"Impact of Red and Blue Monochromatic Light on the Visual System and Dopamine Pathways in Juvenile Zebrafish"
Summary: This experimental study investigates how exposure to red and blue light affects the visual system and dopamine pathways in juvenile zebrafish. Findings indicate that blue light exposure can alter dopamine levels, potentially affecting visual and neurological development.
Impact on Dopamine:
Dopamine is a crucial neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, motivation, and reward mechanisms. Exposure to blue light, especially during evening hours, can disrupt the natural production and regulation of dopamine in several ways:
Circadian Rhythm Disruption: Blue light exposure at night suppresses melatonin production, leading to sleep disturbances. Disrupted sleep can negatively affect dopamine receptors and overall dopamine balance, potentially contributing to mood disorders.
Direct Stimulation: Some studies suggest that blue light can directly stimulate dopamine-producing neurons, leading to increased dopamine levels. While this might enhance alertness temporarily, chronic overstimulation can lead to dopamine dysregulation.
Neurodegenerative Implications: Chronic exposure to blue light has been linked to oxidative stress and potential retinal damage, which may indirectly affect dopaminergic pathways and increase the risk of neurodegenerative conditions.
Recommendations to Mitigate Risks:
Limit Evening Exposure: Reduce exposure to blue light-emitting devices at least 1-2 hours before bedtime to support natural circadian rhythms.
Use Blue Light Filters: Apply screen filters or wear glasses that block blue light to minimize exposure, especially during nighttime.
Optimize Lighting: Choose lighting with warmer color temperatures for evening use to reduce blue light emission.
Promote Sleep Hygiene: Maintain a regular sleep schedule and create a sleep-conducive environment to support dopamine regulation and overall health.
Understanding the broader health implications of blue light exposure, particularly its impact on neurotransmitters like dopamine, is essential for developing effective strategies to protect both ocular and neurological health.
Recent Insights into Blue Light Exposure and Health
FaviconPeople
Yes, Your Smartphone Is Keeping You From Sleeping - and Not Just Because You're Scrolling
FaviconNew York Post
This could increase your risk of Alzheimer's disease more than anything: study
FaviconVerywell Health
Reverse 'TikTok Brain' With These 8 Dopamine-Boosting Tips
--------------------- Here is the original Hawaii Energy letter
HAWAI‘I ENERGY URGES
ISLAND BUSINESSES TO PREPARE FOR NEW CLEAN
LIGHTING STANDARDS LAW THAT PHASES OUT SALE OF FLUORESCENT LIGHT BULBS
The new law will take effect on January 1, 2026
Honolulu, Hawai‘i – Hawai‘i Energy, the state’s energy conservation program,
would like to remind the business community of an important new law aimed at
protecting the environment and promoting cost-effective energy solutions. Act
225 (SLH 2023), also known as the Hawai‘i Clean Lighting Standards Act, will
phase out the sale of linear fluorescent lamps, which are common in many
commercial facilities, in favor of energy-efficient Light-Emitting Diodes
(LEDs), starting January 1, 2026.
“At Hawai‘i Energy, we are
dedicated to ensuring that businesses are well-informed about this new law and
its benefits. We commend the Hawai‘i State Legislature and Governor Green for
their leadership in passing this significant law, which moves Hawai‘i closer to
achieving its 100 percent renewable energy goals,” said Caroline Carl,
executive director of Hawai‘i Energy. “Switching to LEDs not only supports our
state’s sustainability objectives, but also delivers long-term savings for
consumers, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and eliminates hazardous mercury
from our environment.”
Beginning January 1, 2026,
Hawai‘i will ban the sale of pin-base compact fluorescent lamps and linear
fluorescent lamps. Linear fluorescent lamps are defined as low-pressure,
mercury-containing, electric-discharge light sources with two bases (end caps),
including single-pin, two-pin, and recessed double contact. This includes all
tube diameters.
Hawai‘i’s move to LEDs will bring
numerous benefits including:
• Environmental Protection: LEDs are mercury-free, helping to reduce toxic
pollutants in Hawai‘i’s air, water, and landfills.
• Energy Efficiency: LEDs are up to 80% more energy-efficient than fluorescent
bulbs, significantly cutting energy consumption.
• Cost Savings: Switching to LEDs can save businesses and residents up to 90%
on lighting energy costs over time. Hawai‘i taxpayers are expected to save $382
million in electric bills by 2050.
• Long Lifespan: LEDs last three to five times longer than fluorescent bulbs,
reducing replacement costs and waste.
Hawai‘i Energy offers rebates and
resources to assist businesses and residents in making the switch to LED
lighting:
• Instant Rebates for businesses:
Available at participating lighting distributors, including Graybar, Grainger,
Alpha Electric, and more. No forms or applications are required—simply purchase
qualified ENERGY STAR® LED bulbs to start saving.
• Energy Advantage small business lighting upgrade program: Small businesses,
nonprofits and restaurants that are 5,000 sq. ft. or below in size are eligible
to receive facility-wide lighting upgrades for significantly subsidized rates.
• Guidance for Businesses: Hawai‘i Energy’s Clean Energy Ally contractors can
provide expert support for businesses transitioning to energy-efficient
lighting.
“While there may be an initial
upfront cost associated with switching to LED lighting, the long-term savings
and environmental benefits far outweigh the investment,” added Carl. “Hawai‘i
Energy is here to make the process as seamless and cost-effective as possible
for our community by offering some of the best rebates and highest incentives
to help businesses and residents make the switch today.”
Screw base fluorescent lamps have
also been phased out and banned from sale effective January 1, 2025. Businesses
and residents can visit HawaiiEnergy.com for more information, list of
participating retailers, and details on available rebates and resources.
ABOUT HAWAI‘I ENERGY
Hawai‘i Energy helps island
families and businesses make smart energy choices. We encourage and reward
energy decisions that will allow our state to reach 100% clean energy faster
and cheaper. To date, we have saved the people of Hawai‘i more than a billion
dollars off their energy bills. Let Hawai‘i Energy be your trusted energy
advisor to help save you money and protect what makes Hawai‘i so special. For
more information, please visit https://hawaiienergy.com/about/
or email us at hawaiienergy@leidos.com.
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