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Not All Light is Right

by Melissa Blundon. CANP, AOLCP

9 Garden Care 9 Not All Light is Right
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Light Pollution: Understanding Its Impact on Our Night Sky and Environment

On a clear night, gazing at the stars feels magical. But have you ever noticed how much brighter the night sky appears in rural areas compared to urban centers? This difference lies in the level of light pollution, a pervasive issue caused by artificial light sources like street lights, exterior lighting, and illuminated sporting venues.

Light pollution not only dims our view of the Milky Way but also impacts the environment, human health, and wildlife. Let’s explore how we can control and reduce light pollution to protect the natural night sky and promote healthier ecosystems.

What Is Light Pollution?

According to the Oxford Dictionary, light pollution is “the brightening of the night sky caused by street lights and other artificial light sources, which disrupts natural cycles and inhibits the observation of stars and planets.” In simpler terms, it’s the excess of unwanted light that creates a haze, or sky glow, over urban areas, making it difficult to see the natural darkness of the night sky.

The History of Artificial Light and Its Consequences

Before the advent of electric light, humans relied on natural light cycles to regulate daily life. The invention of the light bulb by Thomas Edison in 1879 revolutionized modern society, but it also introduced a new form of environmental pollution. Today, artificial night lighting is an integral part of our industrial civilization, but its overuse has led to significant consequences for both humans and wildlife.

Effects of Light Pollution on Human Health

Light pollution affects our circadian rhythm, the natural 24-hour cycle that regulates sleep and bodily functions. Exposure to light at night, especially blue light, disrupts this cycle, leading to sleep disorders and other adverse health effects. Scientific research links night shift work and prolonged exposure to artificial night sky brightness with an increased risk of developing breast cancer and other health issues.

To mitigate these risks, consider optimizing your interior lighting with dimmers and avoiding excessive brightness during nighttime hours. Simple changes can have a significant impact on your human health and overall well-being.

How Light Pollution Harms Wildlife

Wildlife evolved under natural light conditions, and the sudden introduction of artificial night lighting has disrupted their behaviors. For example:

  • Sea turtle hatchlings rely on the dark silhouette of the horizon to navigate to the ocean. Artificial sky brightness misleads them, endangering their survival.

  • Migratory birds use the night sky for navigation, but communication towers and light clutter from urban areas confuse them, causing fatal collisions.

  • Nocturnal animals like frogs, salamanders, and lightning bugs experience disrupted mating and feeding cycles due to over illumination.

The Environmental Impact of Light Pollution

Beyond its effect on living organisms, light pollution contributes to environmental pollution by wasting energy and increasing air pollution. The energy required to power excessive light fixtures often comes from non-renewable sources, exacerbating the environmental footprint of modern society.

The National Park Service emphasizes the importance of preserving truly dark skies in protected areas. Visitors to national parks are often astounded by the clarity of the Milky Way, an experience rapidly disappearing in light polluted skies.

What Causes Light Pollution?

Several factors contribute to artificial sky brightness:

  • Excessive light from street lamps and illuminated sporting venues.

  • Poorly designed light fixtures that allow direct light to escape upward.

  • Light trespass, where outdoor artificial light invades neighboring spaces.

  • Excessive groupings of lights in urban areas that create sky brightness and light clutter.

Steps to Reduce Light Pollution

Reducing light pollution doesn’t mean eliminating outdoor lighting entirely. Instead, it’s about using light wisely. Here are some tips:

  1. Install Dark Sky-Friendly Fixtures: Use shielded light fixtures that direct light downward rather than into the sky.

  2. Use Timers and Motion Sensors: Minimize light emissions by only using light when needed.

  3. Switch to Energy-Efficient Bulbs: Opt for LEDs with warm tones to reduce blue light exposure.

  4. Advocate for Lighting Standards: Support local initiatives for better lighting standards in your community.

  5. Educate and Spread Awareness: Share knowledge about light pollution reduction and its benefits.

Organizations like the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) offer resources and guidance to help communities tackle excessive light effectively.

Citizen Scientists and the Fight Against Light Pollution

Programs like GLOBE at Night invite individuals to measure and report sky brightness in their areas. These efforts provide valuable data for researchers studying the effects of light pollution. As a citizen scientist, you can play a part in preserving natural darkness for future generations.

Why Gardeners and Landscapers Should Care About Light Pollution

As professionals in the gardening and landscaping industry, we recognize the importance of creating harmonious environments. Light pollution impacts not only the beauty of the natural night sky but also the health of plants, animals, and people. By using thoughtful exterior and interior lighting solutions, we can contribute to light pollution reduction while enhancing the functionality of outdoor spaces.

Imagine how much more serene your garden would feel under a dark sky, free from the glare of artificial light. By making small adjustments, such as selecting proper light fixtures and reducing unwanted light, we can create outdoor spaces that honor nature’s rhythms.

Conclusion: Reclaiming the Night Sky

The loss of natural darkness is a challenge, but it’s one we can address together. By learning about light pollution and implementing strategies to reduce light pollution, we can restore the beauty of the night sky for both humans and wildlife.

Remember, small actions like adjusting exterior lighting or supporting dark sky initiatives can have a big impact. Let’s work together to create a world where the Milky Way is visible from every corner, and where the stars inspire awe in all of us.