Lighting/Dimming

At 25 cents a pop, incandescent bulbs seem like a bargain, but in the long run they waste money and energy. Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) cost about $5-15 per bulb, but last up to ten times longer and use 66 percent less energy--and in doing so each one lowers power plant C02 emissions by 700 pounds. Plus they save the energy you expend replacing them.

Concerned about quality of light? Don't let the "F" word turn you off. "Today's fluorescent lights are a really new generation," says David Bergman, architect and designer/founder of Fire & Water, which designs lighting fixtures and lamps. "They don't buzz, flicker or give off a green tinge like they used to." Instead, they come in full spectrum to help you ditch those wintertime cubicle blues. Need another reason to switch? The stylish CFL-friendly fixtures below will make it a no-brainer.

Product Picks: The Fibonacci Series by David Bergman for Fire & Water was developed by Bergman under the assistance of a grant from the EPA's Energy Star and the California Energy Commission. The spiral lampshade that conceals the bulb (and its energy-efficient pin-based fixture) is composed of post-industrial recycled wood veneer. The paper liner inside the shade is processed chlorine free (PCF). Starts at $655; available for ceiling, floor, desk and wall mounts. Sibling to the Fibonacci, the Flipster Series has hinged panels in its shade that operate like shutters, selectively letting light in and out. The shutters are made from resin that has 40 percent recycled content and is also recyclable (starts at $489; both lamps come with CFL bulbs, www.cyberg.com). Bloom!, a light-emitting-diode (LED)-illuminated flowerpot, offers an eco-friendly outdoor lighting option in two sizes and seven colors. Placed inside versatile #2 recyclable-plastic pots, LEDs can light up anything from potted plants to your entire garden over their 5,000-hour life span. Since water drains safely from them, they also can serve as glowing beverage coolers during a nighttime party (starts at $199, www.bloomusa.net). When a little less light is what you're looking for, you can't go wrong with the EcoVeil sustainable shade by MechoShade Systems, Inc. A collaborative effort between MechoShade and architect William McDonough, this shade screen is the first truly eco-effective solar shade cloth. It's PVC-free, washable, UV resistant, flame retardant and antimicrobial. Plus it also comes in six fantastic colors (www.mechoshade.com, 718-729-2020).