Light pollution, the overwhelming brightness of artificial light in the night sky, has become a significant environmental issue worldwide. According to CNN’s Call to Earth series, one-third of all humans, including 80% of North Americans, cannot see the Milky Way due to this problem.
In 1977, a power outage in New York City allowed residents to witness the stunning sight of the Milky Way streaking across the black sky for the first time in decades. This rare occurrence highlights the impact of light pollution on our ability to appreciate natural darkness.
The consequences of light pollution are far-reaching, affecting not only wildlife but also human health. Research has linked it to obesity, depression, sleep disorders, diabetes, and cancer. Insects are disoriented by unnatural lighting, while sea turtles rely on celestial bodies for navigation, leading to fatal dehydration or predation.
However, there is hope for restoring our night skies. The Perpetual Planet Initiative, in partnership with CNN, has launched initiatives to raise awareness and drive positive action against light pollution.
Some communities have taken steps to mitigate the issue by retrofitting their lighting fixtures or turning off unnecessary lights. DarkSky International, a non-profit organization, has worked with over 22 countries to provide support and accreditation to areas that have made positive changes.
The European Union has introduced legislation to reduce light pollution, including measures to direct lighting only where needed and reducing brightness. Additionally, cutting down on electric-powered indoor and outdoor lights can lead to significant cost savings.
As the movement to save our dark skies gains momentum, there is still a need for continued efforts to address this growing problem. Despite positive progress, some areas still struggle with light pollution, and it remains a pressing concern for environmentalists and wildlife advocates alike.
For those who have witnessed the beauty of natural darkness, such as Joe Rao, who saw the Milky Way above his house in 1977 at the age of 21, optimism is dwindling. However, the growing movement to restore our night skies offers a glimmer of hope that we can once again appreciate the stars and preserve this precious resource for future generations.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/science/light-pollution-dark-skies-c2e-spc/index.html