SYDNEY OUTDOOR LIGHTING IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY INC
Light Polution by SOLIS
Last Updated
2010-08-04
Barry Clark, A. J. Clark, PhD.
Director, Outdoor Lighting Improvement Section AstronomicalSocietyof Victoria Inc. e: bajc@alphalink.com.au
A RATIONALE FOR THE MANDATORY LIMITATION OF OUTDOOR LIGHTING.
Summary
The great value of artificial outdoor lighting has largely obscured the social,ecological and environmental problems resulting from present lighting practice.
The exponential growth of outdoor lighting observed in many countries is unsustainable and greatly at odds with the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Artificial sky glow resulting largely from wasteful lighting design and overuse of lighting is increasingly hampering astronomical research and education. Stray light entering bedrooms at night disturbs sleep and contributes to sleepiness and fatigue, known factors in traffic and industrial accidents. Exposure to artificial light at night is also a recognised risk factor for breast cancer and other cancers, and it may be an underlying contributor to widespread obesity. Outdoor lighting does not inhibit crime but increases it. Drastic reduction in outdoor ambient light levels from all sources and in the associated energy use are justified and will require legislation to be achieved.
