Video: NLB Panel Discussion on Competing Metrics in Human Centric Lighting

LDS NLB logo2 400

Dec 4, 2019

LDS NLB logo3 400There are two important, sometimes competing, metrics regarding Human Centric Lighting. One is the Equivalent Melanopic Lux (EML) and the other is Circadian Stimulus (CS). The metrics were discussed by a panel of experts convened at the National Lighting Bureau’s most recent Annual Lighting Forum. A video of the panel discussion is now available for free viewing or download. 

Good Lighting Design is inherently human centric and lighting affects our sleep cycles, circadian rhythms, alertness and other non-visual responses. With innovative technology developments, coupled with new research, the lighting industry has the opportunity to improve people’s health. The question is do we wait for more research and more discussion or do we begin implementing what we know today.

Three experts comprised a panel that discussed these issues as well as biophilic design at the National Lighting Bureau’s Annual Lighting Forum. The Bureau has just released a video recording of the discussion, titled “Human Centric Lighting,” now available for free viewing or download.

EdisonReport Editor and Publisher Randy Reid moderated the panel. The experts were:

· Mark Lien, Industry Relations Manager, IES

· Michael Barber, Principal, The Lighting Practice

· Craig Casey, Senior Building Science Engineer, Lutron Electronics

The panel defines and discusses Equivalent Melanopic Lux (EML) as the light measured at eye level using weighting factors of the specific light source being used. It is a calculated value of the non-visual reception of response to light. The team discusses that EML is an initial metric and it has some value. But EML only focuses on one photosensor. Since the establishment of the EML, an alternative metric, the Circadian Stimulus (CS), has been developed by the Lighting Research Center. The CS looks at the impact on the other sensors, as well. The industry is debating which metric will be the most valuable and we are in a wait-and-see mode.

The panel also discusses ethics and whether using lighting to influence the sleep-wake cycle is good or bad for society. The panel discussed that once the science establishes the impacts of light on human health, employers that don’t implement solutions may face litigation.

Toward the end of the discussion, Mark Lien makes a profound declaration, “…We are not united in funding research to make some of the benefits tangible. As long as we are not unified to do this for the betterment of the industry, we risk the survival of our industry.”

Watch and listen to the panel discussion HERE

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • LEDVANCE Expands Ontario Presence with New Specification Agent

    LEDVANCE Expands Ontario Presence with New Specification Agent

    LEDVANCE is pleased to announce the appointment of Sterling Architectural Products Ltd. (Sterling Lights) as their new specification agent in Ontario. This partnership strengthens LEDVANCE’s presence in the region and reinforces their commitment to serving the professional lighting design and specification community with innovative, reliable lighting solutions. With decades of experience and a service-driven mindset,… Read More…

  • May 29, 2025 - Eureka Wins Three 2025 Red Dot Awards for Product Design

    Eureka Wins Three 2025 Red Dot Awards for Product Design

    Eureka is pleased to announce that its Velia, Cirra, and Junction luminaires have each received a 2025 Red Dot Design Award for Product Design. It is the 11th consecutive year that Eureka products have been honored with this prestigious award, which is a testament to the company’s consistency and relentless drive to design exceptional luminaires.… Read More…


Design

  • The Difference Between Accent, Ambient & Task Lighting: Ultimate Guide

    The Difference Between Accent, Ambient & Task Lighting: Ultimate Guide

    In interior design, lighting is not just about brightening the room. Sensitive lighting layout is the key in the whole aesthetic atmosphere. An outstanding lighting solution will not rely on one type of fixture. Rather, it is through the combination of different types of lighting. Accent, ambient, and task lighting are three basic types of… Read More…

  • Graphic Office Interiors Enhance Their Office Space, Incorporating State-Of-The-Art Lighting Solutions

    Graphic Office Interiors Enhance Their Office Space, Incorporating State-Of-The-Art Lighting Solutions

    Graphic Office Interiors, a renowned office design and furnishings company serving Vancouver Island since 1966, embarked on a unique lighting project for their personal office in Saanichton, BC. This project marked the first collaboration between Kelly Inglis of Mac’s II Agencies and Graphic Office Interiors’ in-house registered interior designer, Laura Harlos. Known for their exclusive Steelcase furniture line, modular moveable… Read More…


New Products

  • Eureka Announces New Accessories for Scout Luminaire

    Eureka Announces New Accessories for Scout Luminaire

    Eureka has announced the enhancement of its Scout luminaire family with the introduction of new accessories and a new color palette. Three new diffusers have been introduced. Bell is minimalist, translucent and cloche-shaped. Pebble introduces a soft touch and an ambient glow in a distinct, oval-shaped diffuser. Orb is sleek and dome-shaped, adding a touch… Read More…

  • Amico: SOLAR ECLIPSE – 2X4 Multi-Functional Luminaire

    Amico: SOLAR ECLIPSE – 2X4 Multi-Functional Luminaire

    The Solar Eclipse Series provides a multi-functional luminaire that supports the demands of the hospital environment. The sleek and modern design merges architectural aesthetics with exceptional lighting performance to improve patient comfort while maximizing clinical efficiencies. This architectural patient room fixture offers reading, ambient, and exam functionalities and an optional night light. Multi-functional capabilities provide… Read More…