Happy New Year! Welcome back to our weekly newsletter focusing on environmental trends and solutions driving us towards a more sustainable world. I’m Bridget, and with the recent ban on fluorescent light bulbs in Canada starting January 1, I delved into the reasons behind this switch and explored the alternatives available.
This week’s highlights include the transition to LEDs in 2026, the decline of ski weather days, and how fireguards, meant to safeguard humans from wildfires, also benefit wildlife.
As of January 1, Canada implemented a nationwide ban on the import and production of compact fluorescent light bulbs containing mercury, particularly the spiral bulbs commonly found in household lamps. This move aligns with Canada’s commitment to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, aiming to reduce mercury accumulation in the environment, which poses health risks to humans and animals.
LEDs have emerged as a superior alternative to fluorescent bulbs, offering energy efficiency, longevity, and better light quality without mercury content. Olivier Trescases, an expert from the University of Toronto, emphasizes the advantages of LEDs over traditional incandescent and fluorescent lighting options.
The shift towards environmentally friendly options, like LEDs, reflects a broader trend of technological advancements in sustainability. Trescases predicts a similar trajectory for electric vehicles (EVs) as the technology evolves.
Proper disposal of old fluorescent bulbs containing mercury is crucial to prevent environmental contamination. Collection sites are available for safe disposal to prevent mercury leakage into the environment.
In Alberta, the creation of fireguards to mitigate wildfires has unintentionally provided benefits to wildlife, offering open spaces for movement and foraging. This initiative showcases the potential for coexistence between human activities and wildlife conservation.
As we navigate the environmental challenges ahead, it’s essential to adopt eco-friendly practices and technologies. Share your climate and environmental resolutions for 2026 with us at whatonearth@cbc.ca. Stay tuned for more updates on sustainable solutions and environmental news.
Thank you for your continued readership and engagement with What on Earth? Have a green week ahead!
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