At Secure Data Recycling we take our environmental responsibilities seriously. We make it our business to advocate the recycling of IT equipment and paper waste amongst UK businesses and organisations. Keen to practise what we preach, we recently replaced all the lighting in our warehouse with energy efficient, cost-saving LED bulbs, resulting in a number of key benefits to the environment.

7 key environmental benefits of LED lights

1. LED lights have a longer life

One of the most significant advantages of LED lighting compared to traditional lighting solutions is its longer lifespan. LED bulbs last almost six times longer than their conventional counterparts and have a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours. The bulbs need to be replaced less frequently, lightening the burden on landfill and reducing the volume of resources required in their manufacture, packaging and transportation.

2. LED lights are energy efficient

95% of the energy in LEDs is converted into light and only 5% is wasted as heat whereas the reverse is true of traditional bulbs. The lower energy consumption of LEDs reduces the volume of greenhouse gases being emitted into the environment.

3. LED lights have almost no UV emissions

LEDs emit practically no ultraviolet and infra-red light which makes them perfect for use in SDR’s warehouse storage facilities. The lack of UV radiation helps to protect important goods and documents stored by clients in our warehouse.

4. LED lights operate well in hot and cold temperatures

LEDs work well in a wide range of operating temperatures without significant degradation. This makes them the ideal option for  the SDR warehouse where temperatures can be lower than a normal office environment.

5. LED lights do contain toxic elements

Many traditional lighting solutions including fluorescent strip lights contain harmful chemicals such as mercury which could contaminate the environment if they are disposed of in landfill. LEDs on the other hand are free of noxious chemicals, providing a safer working environment for our warehouse staff.

6. LED lights operate on low voltage

Most LED lights operate at low voltage so they are cool to touch and therefore safer to handle during installation and maintenance. Due to their lower voltage, they are also safer to remove, keeping SDR staff safe from burn hazards.

7. LED lights are solid state lights

Unlike incandescent or fluorescent lamps, LEDs are solid state lights which means the traditional glass bulb surrounding the light is not required. This negates the need for glass in their manufacturing process, and as LED lights are physically smaller, reduces packaging and transportation requirements, making them a greener option.

Are you a business looking to reduce your carbon footprint? Do you need advice on how to safely and securely dispose of your unwanted IT equipment? SDR are experts in GDPR compliant computer and paper recycling processes. Speak to one of our experts today about how we can help you go green at work and make a positive impact on the environment.