Urgent Appeal from CIE-USNC: Securing the Future of U.S. Participation in International Lighting Standards
As the year draws to a close, the United States National Committee (USNC) of the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) is calling on the U.S. lighting community for support. Craig Bernecker, President of the CIE-USNC, and Kim Mercier, Vice President of Membership, have issued a joint appeal emphasizing the critical role of the U.S. in international lighting standards and the urgent need to address financial challenges that threaten continued participation.
The Current Situation
The CIE, recognized by global entities such as the International Standards Organization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), develops international standards for lighting science, technology, and design. Unlike many other countries where national committees receive government funding, the CIE-USNC relies entirely on individual and organizational memberships.
Over the years, the CIE-USNC has faced a budgetary shortfall, leaving it in debt and jeopardizing the U.S.’s ability to contribute to international discussions. According to Kim, the committee’s debt repayment agreement is contingent upon meeting its 2024 financial commitments. Falling short by just $7,000, the committee faces the risk of an expulsion vote that could end U.S. representation in the CIE.
Recent Progress
Despite these challenges, the CIE-USNC has made significant strides in 2024:
- Negotiated Debt Repayment: The committee secured an agreement allowing U.S. members to continue participation while addressing debt.
- Enhanced Sponsorship Program: Efforts to diversify participation have resulted in new sponsors for 2025 and re-engaged past supporters.
- Collaboration Efforts: A successful joint virtual meeting with the Council for Optical Radiation Measurements (CORM) attracted wide attendance.
These efforts underscore the committee’s commitment to securing its future and expanding its reach within the U.S. lighting community.
Goals for Greater Engagement
Craig highlighted the need to strengthen ties between the USNC and the broader U.S. lighting community. Historically, the USNC has focused on the scientific and measurement aspects of lighting. However, Craig aims to increase involvement from lighting designers and manufacturers, particularly in two key divisions—Division 3 (Interior Lighting) and Division 6 (Exterior Lighting).
Additionally, Craig seeks to integrate the expertise of the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) into CIE’s international Technical Committees (TCs). Membership in a national committee, such as the CIE-USNC, is a prerequisite for joining these TCs, further emphasizing the importance of sustained support for the organization.
The Call to Action
Kim’s appeal emphasizes the urgency of the situation. “If we don’t meet our 2024 CIE support threshold,” she explained, “the U.S. National Committee may face an expulsion vote.” To address the $7,000 shortfall, the committee is requesting one-time donations from individuals and organizations. Contributions can be made electronically via a QR code or provided link, with all donations helping to secure U.S. participation in shaping international lighting standards.
For those able to contribute at a sponsorship level, the CIE-USNC offers recognition and benefits for 2025. Kim also encourages organizations planning future sponsorships to consider advancing their support into the 2024 tax year to help meet immediate needs.
Why It Matters
The U.S.’s continued participation in the CIE ensures that American perspectives influence international lighting standards. These standards have a far-reaching impact on design practices, product development, and innovation worldwide. Losing this voice would diminish the U.S.’s role in advancing global lighting science and technology.
How to Support
To make a donation or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit the CIE-USNC’s donation portal. Any amount—large or small—can make a significant difference in achieving the committee’s goal.
As Craig concluded, “We hope you’ll agree that there is significant value in supporting the CIE-USNC. Together, we can ensure that the U.S. remains a vital part of the international lighting community.”
Go Deeper:
Read the letter from Kim Mercier
Read the letter from Craig Bernecker
The International Commission on Illumination (CIE) is an international organization dedicated to the science, technology, and art of light and lighting, color and vision, photometry and radiometry, photobiology, and image technology. It plays a critical role in developing international standards, ensuring global cooperation, and advancing lighting innovation.
