Today marks the International Day of Light.
A day to celebrate the huge impact light has had and continues to have on our lives, businesses, culture and society as a whole. And without it, we would literally be in the dark!
And we're all gonna shine a light together All shine a light to light the way
The International Day of Light and ISO 50001 are two influential initiatives that converge in their pursuit of sustainable practices and responsible energy management system. As we celebrate the International Day of Light, it is crucial to recognise the synergy between these two entities and the transformative impact they have on promoting a greener and more enlightened future.
In this blog post, we will explore the theme of this year’s International Day of Light and how ISO 50001 & International Day of Light come together to drive sustainability, energy efficiency, and the optimal utilisation of light-based technologies.
What is the theme of Light Day 2023?
As with most world days, #LightDay2023 has a theme, and this year’s is “Light and Reflection”.
Reflecting on the Power of Light
Light is crucial to the survival of all life on Earth and forms an essential element of key aspects of culture and business from art and science to energy and transport. Light-based energy is a channel for communication and networking (fibre optic cables) and an integral health tool (x-ray), as well as being a vital asset in the practice of forensic science (ultra-violet light).
It has the power to light up the world to air passengers and space travellers alike whilst simultaneously enabling disparate societies from across the globe to communicate and connect with each other through the power of the internet. In driving awareness of the important contribution light has made to our world, UNESCO seeks to support the ongoing evolution of innovative technological, agricultural, health and scientific advances that have helped shape the modern world and underpin the move to sustainability.
What role does Light have to play in Sustainability?
Light is the Key to Sustainability
Light is an invaluable source of clean, renewable energy which we need to tap into in the drive to achieve sustainability and net zero.
What is Light Energy?
A form of “visible radiation” Light Energy is the power that emanates from multiple natural and man-made sources including:
- Natural – the Sun, Stars, Moon, Solar System, Fire, Insects and some Fish
- Man-Made – Fire (not started naturally), Electric/Led Bulbs, Lasers, Drones, Oil/Kerosene Lamps, Battery Torches
Light, both natural and artificial, has proved to be integral to the development and advancement of humankind. In a nutshell, we simply can’t live without it. Without light energy, manufacturing plants could not operate, offices couldn’t function, laboratories would be obsolete and schools would close.
As for hospitals and healthcare; think of all the artificially lit hospital corridors, operating theatres, x-ray departments, test labs – none of which would be able to function in the dark.
Visible Light a form of radiation, which can be defined as an energy that travels in the form of electromagnetic waves.
Light makes our world more open, safer, clearer, and easier to navigate.
Where does ISO come in?
ISO 50001 the ground-breaking Energy Management System Standard is of itself a catalyst for sustainable light energy and decarbonised energy production and consumption in general.
Embracing Energy Efficiency
Lighting typically accounts for about 20-40% of the total energy consumption in commercial office buildings where International Day of Light encourages the adoption of energy-efficient lighting solutions, emphasising the importance of reducing energy consumption.
ISO 50001 complements this objective by providing organisations with a systematic framework for effective energy management. By implementing ISO 50001, organisations can identify areas of energy waste, establish energy-saving practices, and optimize their energy performance.
Together, these initiatives promote the efficient use of light, thereby reducing energy demands and minimizing the environmental footprint.
Promoting Sustainable Lighting Practices
Sustainable lighting practices are at the heart of both the International Day of Light and ISO 50001. The International Day of Light inspires individuals and organisations to explore environmentally friendly lighting alternatives, such as LED technology, which not only consumes less energy but also has a longer lifespan.
ISO 50001 encourages organisations to adopt sustainable lighting strategies, optimize natural lighting, and utilize energy-efficient fixtures. By combining the principles of both initiatives, we can illuminate our spaces while minimizing energy consumption and environmental impact.
Leveraging Renewable Energy
Renewable energy integration is a critical aspect of the International Day of Light and ISO 50001. The International Day of Light advocates for the adoption of renewable energy sources to power light-based technologies, such as solar panels or wind turbines.
ISO 50001 facilitates this transition by guiding organizations in evaluating and incorporating renewable energy into their energy management systems.
By harnessing the power of renewable resources, we can illuminate our world sustainably, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.
Driving Continuous Improvement
ISO 50001 is based on the principle of continuous improvement, which aligns with the spirit of the International Day of Light.
The International Day of Light serves as an annual reminder to continuously explore innovative lighting technologies, advancements in energy efficiency, and sustainable practices.
ISO 50001 supports this notion by emphasising the need for organizations to establish energy objectives, monitor energy performance, and continuously seek opportunities for improvement.
Together, these initiatives foster a culture of continuous learning and advancement towards a more sustainable and efficient use of light and energy.
Encouraging Collaboration and Awareness
Both the International Day of Light and ISO 50001 advocate for collaboration and awareness in promoting sustainable practices. ISO 50001 encourages organisations to collaborate with stakeholders, engage employees, and raise awareness about energy management practices.
By working together, sharing insights, and spreading awareness, we can accelerate the adoption of sustainable lighting technologies and energy management practices on a global scale.
Conclusion
The International Day of Light and ISO 50001 share a common vision of sustainability, energy efficiency, and responsible energy management. By celebrating the International Day of Light in conjunction with implementing ISO 50001, we can unlock the full potential of light-based technologies while minimising their environmental impact.
Let us embrace energy efficiency, promote sustainable lighting practices, leverage renewable energy, drive continuous improvement, and foster collaboration and awareness.
Together, we can illuminate a future that is both brighter and greener, where the power of light is harnessed sustainably for the benefit of all.
ISO 50001 Funding is available
In Ireland, several funding opportunities are available for organisations looking to invest in energy management and implement sustainable practices.
These funding sources aim to support businesses in reducing energy consumption, improving energy efficiency, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
Here are some notable funding options in Ireland:
Book an Energy Audit or ISO 50001 Gap Analysis of your business or a consultation with one of our energy management experts.
To discuss the benefits of an ISO Energy Management System and the pathway to ISO 50001 certification, why not give CG Business Consulting a call on 01 620 4121.
One of our consulting team would be more than happy to help you plan your journey to a sustainably powered future.
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An Energy Audit is often the first step to a more sustainable future for your business.
