Light and People
Light has always been a prerequisite for human existence. Inspired by daylight and the latest science, we can create lighting that makes life even better. There is a simple, scientific way to plan lighting that meets human biological needs - now we can present the impact of luminaires on hormone levels.
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Spring forward, fall back: How seasonal changes and lighting impact well-being and productivity
When the clocks go back each autumn, many people experience noticeable changes in their mood, energy levels, and overall productivity. The shift to shorter days and longer nights is more than just an inconvenience—it has a profound impact on how we work and feel. Understanding the science behind this shift and how lighting can be used to combat its negative effects is essential for creating solutions that promote well-being. The role of light in our daily lives Light is an integral part of how we function, both physically and emotionally. Natural sunlight affects our circadian rhythms, the internal biological clock that regulates our sleep-wake cycles, hormone production, and even digestion. When we receive enough daylight, our bodies produce optimal levels of melatonin and serotonin, hormones that help regulate mood and sleep. In contrast, a lack of sunlight can disrupt these rhythms, leading to issues like fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings. As daylight hours shorten when the clocks go back, many people find themselves starting and ending their day in the dark. This lack of exposure to natural light can create a feeling of lethargy, often referred to as the "winter blues" or, in more severe cases, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a form of depression that is triggered by the changing seasons, typically beginning in autumn and lasting through the winter months. Symptoms can include low energy, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and a general sense of sadness or hopelessness. The connection between light and productivity The effect of light on our ability to work efficiently cannot be overstated. Research shows that proper lighting is crucial to productivity, especially in the workplace. Inadequate lighting, particularly in environments that don’t adapt to seasonal changes, can lead to eye strain, headaches, and fatigue, which in turn affects performance and job satisfaction. Natural light is ideal for creating a productive work environment because it helps maintain our circadian rhythms, boosts mood, and improves focus. However, with shorter daylight hours, especially after the clocks go back, most workplaces and homes rely heavily on artificial lighting. This makes it critical to have lighting that mimics the quality of natural daylight to ensure continued productivity and well-being. The wrong type of lighting—too dim, too harsh, or too inconsistent—can lead to a similar disconnection from the natural rhythms that help us function at our best. Poorly lit environments can make tasks seem more difficult, increase stress, and reduce motivation. In offices, classrooms, and homes, this is particularly problematic during the colder months when natural light is scarce. For some individuals, the impact of reduced daylight goes beyond simple sluggishness or difficulty focusing. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects an estimated 29% of the adult population in the UK, with symptoms typically intensifying in winter. The disorder is linked to reduced exposure to sunlight, which affects serotonin levels, the neurotransmitter that influences mood and feelings of well-being. In addition, the shift in daylight hours can disrupt melatonin production, further impacting sleep patterns and mood regulation. Lighting can play a significant role in mitigating the effects of SAD. For example, light therapy—a treatment that involves exposure to a lightbox that mimics natural sunlight—has been shown to alleviate symptoms for many sufferers. Similarly, installing the right type of lighting solution in homes, offices, and communal spaces can help create a more balanced and energising environment, even when natural light is limited. The importance of adaptive lighting in indoor spaces One of the biggest challenges during the darker months is ensuring that indoor lighting compensates for the loss of natural light. Many spaces remain lit throughout the year with little regard for how the quality and intensity of daylight changes with the seasons. For example, a room may be perfectly lit for a sunny summer afternoon, but feel dull and inadequate during a dark winter morning. This disconnect can negatively affect both mood and productivity. To create a more supportive environment, lighting systems need to be adaptive, adjusting for seasonal changes and the shifting demands of different times of day. For instance, offices and homes can benefit from lighting solutions that simulate the gradual brightness of natural daylight in the morning, helping to energise people as they begin their day. Later in the afternoon, warmer, dimmer lights can create a more relaxed atmosphere, preparing people for winding down. Incorporating smart lighting systems that automatically adjust based on the time of day or changing weather conditions can greatly improve how people feel and function. These systems can mimic the natural light spectrum, providing brighter, cooler light during the day to boost alertness, and softer, warmer light in the evening to promote relaxation. How lighting can help The challenge and opportunity lies in developing solutions that not only provide adequate illumination but also enhance well-being and productivity. Designing lights that adjust to the changing seasons, shift in intensity, and mimic natural sunlight can have a significant impact on users. This includes incorporating smart controls and customisable settings that allow individuals to personalise their lighting experience based on their specific needs—whether that’s combating the effects of SAD, maintaining focus at work, or creating a calming home environment. By prioritising human-centred lighting design, it is possible to create products that support people throughout the year, regardless of how much natural light is available. In doing so, we can help improve overall mood, productivity, and well-being, particularly during the darker months when we need it most.
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Is there a simple, scientific approach to satisfy human biological lighting needs? You bet. Allow me to introduce: The Melanopic Ratio!
Henrik Clausen, the Director of the Fagerhult Lighting Academy, stands at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and smart lighting. With a commitment to creating a truly effective lighting environment, Henrik emphasises the importance of understanding the intricate relationship between light and our biological rhythms. In this exploration, Henrik introduces the concept of the Melanopic Ratio. It's not just about lighting up a space for visibility; it's about synchronizing with our biological rhythms for a genuinely effective lighting environment. When it comes to measuring light, we often talk about lux, which describes the brightness hitting an area or filling a room. But did you know there's more to it than meets the eye? Traditionally, we've focused on "photopic lux," the kind of light our eyes need for clear vision. But here's the game-changer: the world of lighting planning now includes "Melanopic lux," the unit that gauges how light affects the receptors governing our biological circadian rhythm. It's all about the amount and the spectrum of light we experience, and it plays a significant role in our sleep quality and overall well-being. Picture this: You step out on a bright, sunny morning, and you instantly feel more alert. That's the kind of awakening "melanopic" light provides, and electric lighting can mimic this natural spectrum, which helps support our circadian rhythm. In settings where people spend extended periods, like offices and schools, a consistent circadian rhythm can make a world of difference. Healthcare environments, such as hospitals and clinics, are another prime example, where a well-balanced circadian rhythm benefits both patients and healthcare providers. Enter the Melanopic Ratio. It's your ace in the hole if you're into spaces that cater to human biological needs. This factor, known as Melanopic Daylight Efficacy Ratio (MDER), plays a pivotal role in lighting planning. It calculates how much a light source contributes to melanopic lux, which measures light vertically at eye level. Since daylight is the reference point for our circadian rhythm, it serves as the basis for Melanopic Ratio. Here's the nitty-gritty: Melanopic Ratio compares the spectral composition of a light source with daylight. Armed with a light's Melanopic Ratio, you can effortlessly determine its melanopic lighting intensity. This allows us to create lighting setups that hit the bullseye for both visual and biological lighting needs. But not all lights are created equal. Luminaires with high intensity and a higher color temperature usually boast a favorable Melanopic Ratio. I recommend following the recommendations of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE). They're all about keeping things standardized and have introduced the concepts of MDER and MEDI in the upcoming global lighting standard. While these aren't mandatory, they're a valuable addition. We take your experience and health seriously, so we provide Melanopic Ratio data (MDER) at the diode level per luminaire for full transparency. We're committed to sharing the Melanopic Ratio because good lighting isn't just about visibility; it's about aligning with your biological clock. It's as fundamental as ensuring your workspace is comfortably heated and well-ventilated. By making Melanopic Ratio data available for all luminaires, we're contributing to a holistic approach to future workplaces. Property owners can invest wisely, and lighting designers can create spaces where people thrive. With just one factor per luminaire, you can delve into the world of Melanopic Ratio (MDER) at the diode level, exploring how different setups impact visual and biological lighting intensity and energy efficiency. It also simplifies documentation, especially for building certification purposes. Remember, there's no shortcut to perfect lighting. Melanopic Ratio is crucial, but it's not the only player in the game. We must still consider all aspects of lighting, including visual and emotional elements. Meeting standards and adhering to norms for glare and luminance remains imperative. Excessive lighting intensity and improper light angles can lead to discomfort and glare. We cherish natural daylight, but trying to mimic it round the clock isn't energy-efficient. Each lighting system must be thoughtfully tailored to meet users' needs, room layouts, and daylight availability. Good lighting is all about respect—for people and the environment. Melanopic Ratio is a key factor in striking the right balance between health, sustainability, and economic efficiency. While biologically active lighting and advanced control systems may demand more energy, they represent an investment in human well-being without compromising the environment or the bottom line. As always, energy conservation is a priority. Research indicates that our circadian rhythm responds best to a "light shower" with cooler light for a period ranging from 30 minutes to three hours in the morning. After that, both lighting intensity and color temperature can be toned down, provided they meet the lighting standard's normative requirements. Smart lighting control and tunable white lighting systems enable us to create energy-efficient setups that adhere to the standards—500 photopic lux on work surfaces and a recommended 250 melanopic lux for two hours in the morning. In healthcare environments, there's ample room to create a supportive lighting environment in an energy-efficient manner. Patients often remain bedridden, and horizontal light exposure allows us to achieve recommended lighting levels with lower energy consumption. Embrace daylight—it doesn't matter where it comes from, if it delivers the right intensity and quality. By integrating natural light and implementing effective control systems, you can maintain appropriate lighting levels while minimizing energy consumption. Choose your luminaires thoughtfully. A high Melanopic Ratio often means you can reduce photopic lighting intensity and save energy. However, it's essential to keep in mind that every individual has unique needs, and a well-designed lighting plan should cater to those distinctions.
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