With nearly 20 percent of all home electric costs stemming from lighting alone, CFLs can have tremendous benefits. Converting one conventional 60W bulb to a 13W CFL can save: $30 in electric costs over its lifetime; 10 conventional bulbs from being produced, transported and discarded in a landfill; 220 lbs. of coal from being burned; and 450 lbs. of greenhouse gases from reaching the air. The average home has more than 30 compatible sockets, which means even more potential savings.
Despite the fact that these bulbs cost 9-12 times more than conventional bulbs, consumers will soon realize that the savings to themselves, not to mention the environment saving, make the eco-friendly bulbs a better value. I know we will be adding them to our shopping list this year, especially now that they have developed “softer” light versions.
I believe that Wal-Mart’s commitment to eco-friendly products will ultimately help them pull out of their current slump and go along way to lessen the hostility many people have toward this retailing behemoth. Feels like Marketing for Good to me.