How Human-Centric Lighting Drives ESG & Sustainable Workplaces

Lighting is often treated like background scenery. Yet it quietly shapes energy use, cognitive performance, sleep quality, and even the credibility of companie’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting. Human-centric lighting (HCL) turns illumination from a utility into a strategic lever, supporting people and the planet.

What is Human-Centric Lighting?

Human-centric lighting is an architectural lighting approach that aligns artificial light with human biology, especially to our synchronise our circadian rhythm with the time of the day, rather than focusing only on visual acuity.

Core principles

• Circadian support: compensates the lack of daylight by adjusting intensity and color temperature to cue alertness by day and relaxation toward evening.

• Melanopic metrics: Design to sufficient melanopic EDI (Equivalent Daylight Illuminance) to reinforce healthy sleep–wake cycles.

• Dynamic tunability: Shift from cooler, brighter light in the morning to warmer, dimmer light later in the day.

• Visual comfort: Reduce glare, harsh contrast, and flicker to cut eye strain and boost focus.

• User adaptability: Provide task- and age-appropriate control so people can tune light to their needs.

Why HCL Matters for ESG

Enivornment: By centering lighting design around people, this approach not only improves individual performance and wellness, but also lays a strong foundation for organizations pursuing sustainable and socially responsible environments.

Social: light that supports our circadian rhythms improves alertness, mood, sleep quality, and visual comfort—factors linked to engagement, productivity, and attendance.

Governance: investing in human centric lighting demonstrates a transparent and forward-thinking approach to workplace design. Lighting strategies aligned with WELL or LEED certification reflect a commitment to evidence-based health standards.

Read the full blog of UPRtek here and discover, among other things, where HCL delivers the greatest benefits.