What is light pollution?

 

Light pollution is the human-made alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally.

 

What are the effects?

 

Light pollution disrupts wildlife, impacts human health, wastes money and energy, contributes to climate change, and blocks our view of the universe.

 

What can we do to protect the dark sky?

 

Below are Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting:

 

1. Useful

Use light only if it is needed

All light should have a clear purpose. Consider how the use of light will impact the area, including wildlife and their habitats.

 

2. Targeted

Direct light so it falls only where it is needed

Use shielding and careful aiming to target the direction of the light beam so that it points downward and does not spill beyond where it is needed.

 

3. Low level

Light should be no brighter than necessary

Use the lowest light level required. Be mindful of surface conditions, as some surfaces may reflect more light into the night sky than intended.

 

4. Controlled

Use light only when it is needed

Use controls such as timers or motion detectors to ensure that light is available when it is needed, dimmed when possible, and turned off when not needed.

 

5. Warm-colored

Use warmer-color lights where possible

Limit the amount of shorter wavelength (blue-violet) light to the least amount needed.