Lighting

The light pollution produced by street lamps, advertising boards, flood lights and our homes is so bad that 80% of the world's population lives in the haze of a perpetual glow.

Efficient LED technology looks set to flick the switch on traditional incandescent lightbulbs forever, say researchers.

The UK’s Public Astronomer calls for an end to old, inefficient street lights, something he says will have benefits that go beyond just seeing the stars.

Harold Edgerton invented the electronic flash – which allowed him to capture things the human eye cannot see. Stephen Dowling looks at his legacy.

With a simple trick, the humble spud can be made into a battery, so could potato powered homes catch on?

How does a fiddly little piece of wire encased in a glass bubble manage to illuminate so well? James May illuminates the secrets of a humble household servant.

The Avon Company approach to sales – going door-to-door – created an enduring American brand. Now the technique is being used in Africa – and it’s saving lives.

Our swelling cities consume enormous amounts of energy and generate over 80% of global carbon emissions. We need to make them more self-sufficient, but how?