Back in March 2007, IKEA made big news by first charging people for plastic bags — then banishing plastic bags from stores altogether in 2008. That move’s since been copied by many retail giants — the latest being Wal-Mart, which started experimenting with a plastic bag ban in three California stores earlier this year.

Now, IKEA’s making another bold eco-move: Eliminating incandescent bulbs. The bulbs won’t disappear abruptly; IKEA says a “phase out” will begin Aug. 1 this year. Total elimination will happen by Jan. 1, 2011, when IKEA shoppers will only find energy-efficient CFL, LED, and halogen bulbs.

IKEA isn’t the only company preparing to get rid of incandescent bulbs. After all, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires a phase out of inefficient incandescent light bulbs starting 2012. IKEA’s simply thinking ahead, staying ahead of the curve and getting green kudos for its foresight — just as the company did with the plastic bag ban.

This news should please Ashley Braun at Grist, who’s upset that wasteful “vintage” incandescent bulbs seem to be the latest interior design craze.

Earlier:
>> California close to plastic bag ban
>> How to recycle your CFL bulbs
>> Ikea saga: From drawers to disposable bags

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