On August 25, 2010, according to the EURACTIV website, as the EU prepares to enter the second phase of phasing out high-energy-consuming light bulbs in September, consumer organizations are concerned that high-tech terminology will confuse consumers and lead to confusion regarding new product information. Therefore, they are calling for broader information education activities and better handling of such matters.
In 2009, the European Union implemented new energy efficiency standards for light bulbs, phasing out traditional 100-watt incandescent bulbs. From September 1, 2010, all inefficient 75-watt bulbs were also phased out of store shelves, but retailers were allowed to sell their existing stock.
The regulation will phase out all inefficient incandescent and halogen bulbs on the market, replacing them with more efficient bulbs, such as fluorescent lamps that combine halogen technology or are compact (energy-saving) bulbs. The European Commission estimates that, despite the slightly higher purchase price, energy-saving bulbs will still save each household an average of €25 to €50 per year.
Furthermore, starting in September, there are mandatory standards for the information added to product packaging. To benefit consumers, manufacturers must print product information such as bulb lifespan, number of times the bulb can be switched on and off, and the turn-on buffer time.
Consumer groups also want manufacturers to better manage fluorescent light bulb systems and are concerned about the mercury content in them, calling for the existing mercury threshold to be lowered from 5 mg to 1-2 mg.
— Source: WTO Inspection and Quarantine Information Network
