Sitting down shortens life while gizmos that leave you sitting guzzle energy

Going forward into the past in the name of energy conservation may be the next big brainwave from the EU as slowly but surely, people in Europe are being forced to switch off from high-wattage household appliances.

After coming down on vacuum cleaners last month — and flat-screen TVs and incandescent bulbs earlier — toasters and electric kettles are now rumoured to be in the EU firing (or de-wiring) line as part of plans to reduce electricity consumption.

The result, of course, is a run on these high-end variants before the axe falls, though there is obviously no real need to have carpet cleaners or baguette browners with racing car-size motors.

But if the idea is to cut down on fossil fuels in the long run, why not consider a total ban on these gadgets? Not only will this practically eliminate greenhouse gas emissions, the consequent rise in use of human energy — an eminently renewable resource — could lead to an all-round improvement in health as well.

A study released this week asserts that standing for longer periods can promote longevity, so there is even some scientific justification for any extended hours of housework that may be necessitated by a possible future blanket EU ban on appliances that promote sedentary habits. With a power crisis looming darkly over India, will it look to EU for such bright ideas?