The Government has launched a consultation paper on removing inefficient light bulbs from the Irish market.
The paper - published today by Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government John Gormley - outlines details of the proposed standard. If implemented, it will be introduced on a phased basis over a number of years.
The types of bulbs which will be taken off the market for not meeting the proposed standard are ordinary incandescent tungsten filament bulbs and low energy-efficient incandescent tungsten filament halogen bulbs for general lighting, Mr Gormley said.
The first phase will be introduced in March 2009 and will apply to bulbs of 75W and above. The Minister said this will remove half of all the energy inefficient light bulbs from the Irish market.
However, the proposals make no specific recommendations for incandescent spot and reflector bulbs, including dimmable bulbs.
"The proposed standard will offer significant benefits for consumers in terms of reducing the cost of lighting and for the environment in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions which contribute to climate change," he said.
"It provides a great opportunity for individuals to actively engage in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to reduce their carbon footprint. The consultation process provides an opportunity for all concerned to make their views known," said the Minister.
A copy of the consultation paper is available on
www.environ.ie