Evan posted a blog note on this subject back at the end of March and we have adapted and summarized some of these findings in a new Lighting Global Eco Design Note. In addition to summarizing research findings on embodied energy, we have also included a discussion on black carbon emission reductions that can occur when kerosene lamps are replaced with pico-solar products.

The Eco Note focuses on the macro/global aspects of pico-solar energy and attempts to paint that big picture portrait - where a local solution actually does have a global reach. When the black carbon paper was released many of us were surprised at the magnitude of climate forcing from kerosene lamps - one estimate puts this forcing from simple wick kerosene lamps at 5% of annual US climate emissions. 5 percent! This is a substantial greenhouse constituent (an aerosol as opposed to a gas) - and one where eliminating the source has profound positive benefits for the people served. I know I'm preaching to the choir here, but perhaps these types of arguments can help broaden the audience for this technology and serve as support for the continued growth of the market.