Light Pollution: Solutions For A Brighter Tomorrow

Light pollution is the human-made alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally. It has been linked to a host of harmful effects on wildlife and human health, as well as energy wastage. The good news is that light pollution is a problem that can be solved through individual action, such as using shielded fixtures, turning off unnecessary lights, and adopting warmer-coloured lighting. Communities can also play a role by creating lighting ordinances, while governments can implement policies to limit light pollution. With collective effort, we can reduce light pollution and protect our health, ecosystems, and the beauty of the night sky.

Use less light

Using less light is a simple and effective way to reduce light pollution.

Firstly, it is important to minimise the use of decorative lighting. While decorative lights are enjoyable, they contribute to light pollution. A good alternative is to use environmentally-friendly candles during festive periods, which also helps conserve energy.

Secondly, it is recommended to use covered bulbs that light up spaces facing downwards. This is especially important for street lights and highway lighting. These bulbs reduce the amount of light that escapes into the sky, thereby reducing light pollution.

Thirdly, switching off unnecessary lights is a cheap and easy way to reduce light pollution. Turn off lights before sleep, or when there is no activity outside the house. If security is a concern, motion sensors can be installed to detect movement and only turn on the lights when needed.

Additionally, it is important to avoid using blue lights at night. Blue-rich white light sources increase glare and compromise human vision, especially for older people. They also create potential safety issues for motorists and pedestrians. In natural settings, blue light has been shown to negatively impact wildlife behaviour and reproduction, particularly in cities where migratory species may be affected.

Finally, it is recommended to use warm-coloured light bulbs, such as low-pressure sodium (LPS) or low-colour-temperature LEDs. These bulbs minimise blue light emission, which is more harmful to the environment and human health.

By following these steps and using less light, we can significantly reduce light pollution and its negative impacts on the environment and human well-being.

Use downward-facing lights

Light pollution is a growing problem, affecting the natural world and human health. The good news is, there are many ways to reduce it, and one of the most effective is to use downward-facing lights.

Downward-facing lights are a simple yet powerful way to reduce light pollution. By directing light downwards, this type of lighting ensures that light is only emitted where it is needed, minimising light trespass and reducing the overall amount of light pollution. This is especially important for outdoor lighting, where light can spill into neighbouring areas and disrupt wildlife.

The use of shielding or light covers can help direct light downwards and prevent it from escaping upwards or sideways. Light shields can be installed on outdoor lighting fixtures to contain the light to a specific area, reducing the amount of light that escapes into the night sky. This is a simple yet effective way to immediately reduce light pollution.

For indoor lighting, downward-facing lights are also beneficial. While indoor lighting may seem less impactful, it can still contribute to overall light pollution, especially in urban areas. By using downward-facing lights and keeping blinds and drapes closed at night, the amount of light escaping into the environment can be reduced.

Additionally, when using flashlights or headlights, pointing them towards the ground is a good habit to get into. Even a tiny ray of light pointed upwards contributes to light pollution. This is especially important for activities like night hiking, where a simple change in behaviour can make a difference.

The use of downward-facing lights is a straightforward way to reduce light pollution. By containing light to specific areas and minimising unnecessary light spill, this method helps to preserve the natural darkness of the night sky and reduce the negative impacts of light pollution on human health and the environment.

Avoid blue-rich white light

Blue-rich white light has been deemed the worst kind of light for humans and other lifeforms to be exposed to at night. Blue light at night is detrimental to human health as it disrupts the body's circadian rhythm, throwing off balance almost every physiological process. Research has shown that it may contribute to the causes of cancer, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Blue-rich light sources are also known to increase glare and compromise human vision, especially in the aging eye. These lights create potential road safety problems for motorists and pedestrians.

Outdoor lighting with a strong blue content is likely to worsen sky glow because it has a significantly larger geographic reach than lighting consisting of less blue. According to the 2016 "World Atlas of Artificial Night Sky Brightness", street lighting and outdoor lighting retrofits using 4000K lamps could result in a 2.5 increase in lighting pollution.

In natural settings, blue light at night has been shown to adversely affect wildlife behaviour and reproduction. This is particularly true in cities, which are often stopover points for migratory species.

To avoid the adverse effects of blue-rich white light, it is recommended to use warm-toned or filtered LEDs (CCT 3000 K or lower; S/P ratio 1.2 or lower) to minimise blue emission. DarkSky International, a leading authority on light pollution, suggests using low-pressure sodium (LPS), high-pressure sodium (HPS), and low-CCT LEDs for outdoor lighting.

Additionally, it is important to shield light fixtures to minimise glare and light trespass, as well as to aim lights downwards rather than upwards or horizontally to prevent glare and light pollution.

Turn off unnecessary lights

Turning off unnecessary lights is a simple yet powerful way to combat light pollution. This strategy is about more than just flipping a switch; it's about cultivating a mindful approach to lighting choices.

At the most basic level, turning off unnecessary lights is about energy conservation. By reducing the number of illuminated lights, we can decrease the amount of artificial light that escapes into the night sky. This is especially important for indoor lighting in empty buildings, such as offices, where lights serve no practical purpose and only contribute to light pollution.

However, it's not just about the number of lights but also their placement and shielding. Lights should be directed downwards, focusing on illuminating only the necessary areas. This simple adjustment ensures that light is used efficiently, reducing the amount that escapes upwards or horizontally, causing glare.

The use of blinds or curtains can also help minimise light trespass, preventing excess indoor light from spilling into the night sky or neighbouring properties.

Motion sensors and timers are excellent tools to automate this process. Motion sensors ensure that lights are only activated when someone is present, while timers allow for lights to be turned off at specific times, reducing the amount of wasted illumination.

By embracing this mindful approach to lighting, we can significantly reduce light pollution, benefiting both the environment and our own health.

Support dark-sky initiatives

Supporting dark-sky initiatives is a crucial step in tackling light pollution. Dark-sky initiatives are focused on reducing light pollution and conserving dark skies for the benefit of humans, wildlife, and the environment. Here are some ways to support these initiatives:

Education and Advocacy

DarkSky International, a leading organisation in the fight against light pollution, has over 2,000 volunteer advocates worldwide who educate communities about the harmful effects of light pollution. They work with universities, nonprofits, community groups, and businesses to spread awareness and promote responsible outdoor lighting practices. Supporting such initiatives through volunteering or donations can help amplify their message and reach a wider audience.

Community Engagement

Getting involved with local chapters of dark-sky organisations is a great way to support their efforts. These chapters are often the driving force behind establishing and enforcing lighting ordinances in communities. They also organise events like stargazing in local parks to help residents appreciate the beauty of a natural night sky and understand the importance of reducing light pollution. Joining or starting a local chapter can be a powerful way to create change.

Responsible Lighting Practices

Dark-sky initiatives promote the use of responsible lighting practices that minimise light pollution. This includes using shielded fixtures that direct light downwards, reducing glare and light trespass. Warm-coloured bulbs, such as low-pressure sodium (LPS) or low-CCT LEDs, are recommended over blue-rich white lights, which can be harmful to humans, wildlife, and the night sky. Switching to energy-efficient LEDs can also help reduce light pollution while conserving energy.

Dark Sky Places

Dark-sky initiatives work to certify and conserve starry sky parks, communities, and other places around the world. These Dark Sky Places provide protected areas where natural darkness is preserved, offering a refuge for wildlife and an opportunity for people to experience the beauty of an unpolluted night sky. Supporting the establishment and conservation of these places helps ensure their long-term viability and accessibility.

Legislative Efforts

Dark-sky initiatives advocate for the passage of legislation that addresses light pollution. This includes working with communities and professionals to establish codes and statutes that promote responsible outdoor lighting. Supporting these legislative efforts can be done through contacting local representatives, participating in public hearings, and voting for candidates who prioritise dark-sky preservation.

Frequently asked questions