Keep On Burning

by The Mansion

The Centennial Light hangs in the firehouse of the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department, CA, its the world's longest lasting light bulb. How old is it? The firehouse which maintains the bulb claims it is 107 years old! Imagine that, a light bulb that lasts for over a century, you know I'd be happy if my light bulbs lasted a 100 days let alone a 100 years.
Why? Built-in obsolescence. Once upon a time long, long ago manufacturers took pride in craftsmanship, it was a time when TVs, radios, cars, kitchen appliances and apparently light bulbs lasted a generation or more.

For instance, companies like G.E. among others, who produce light bulbs have learned to inject oxygen, yes air, into a bulb in order to decrease the lifespan.
More oxygen, less vacuum, less lifespan...corporations make more money, we spend more money. Energy and resources are wasted, landfills overflow and environmental issues make headlines...get the picture. I ask you, can built-in obsolescence be the mother of many of today's problems?

The next time you go out and buy light bulbs read the package. Cheap bulbs have short lifespans...why, corporate asshats have managed to sell us air.