WHY LIGHT?
16 Million Filipinos Live in Darkness
When the sun goes down every day, millions of Filipinos are left in complete darkness. Because they have no access to electricity, they rely on the yellowish flickering light emitted by their kerosene lamps to light up their homes or the
dangerous firepits used to cook food.
The Problems
Millions still have no access to electricity. Because they have no access to electricity, they rely on the yellowish, flickering light emitted by their kerosene lamps to light up their homes. Here are some reasons why this is bad for
them.
Harmful to the Environment
According to the Lumina Project, each kerosene lamp releases 100 kilograms of carbon dioxide and black carbon into the environment every year. That’s the equivalent of incinerating five months’ worth of
garbage.
Hazardous
A WHO study revealed that inhaling the fumes of a kerosene lamp for four hours is equivalent to smoking two packs of cigarettes. As children are exposed to these from birth, the repercussions to their respiratory system are
deadly. Furthermore, the open flame of the lamp can cause severe burns that can scar, if not kill them.
Costly
A bottle of kerosene costs anywhere from PhP10-30 and lasts for about two nights. This means that on average, they spend a third of their income on kerosene.
The Solutions
Solar technology is one of the best alternative forms of energy. Each light unit comes with its own individual solar panel and is charged during the daytime for use at night. Here’s why they’re the ideal alternative for
those without electricity.
Clean
Solar-powered lights offset all the carbon emissions released by a kerosene lamp. Additionally, the white light that a solar lantern emits is over ten times brighter than the flame of a kerosene lamp.
Safe
Solar-powered lights reduce the risks of getting burned by flames, getting a respiratory ailment, or developing eye strain from the weak light. Additionally, because there is no electricity involved, even children can
operate a lamp without any risk of injury or harm.
Affordable
Although the prices of solar lanterns vary, one unit costs roughly P1,300, and lasts anywhere from three to five years. Because the lights come from a locally owned company, service and replacement is never a
problem.
