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Writer's pictureEvan Thibodeau

Shedding Light on the Fight Against Light Pollution: The Search for the Perfect Bulb



Artificial light pollution has become a significant concern in recent years, with the increasing use of high-intensity artificial light sources. This has negative environmental, physical, and health implications. Luckily, there are several ways to mitigate the impact of light pollution, including the use of the right kind of light bulbs and lighting restrictions.

One of the most effective ways to reduce light pollution is to use low-pressure sodium (LPS) lighting. LPS lamps emit a yellow-orange light that has minimal effect on the night sky (Seen above). They are also highly energy-efficient, making them an eco-friendly option. Unfortunately, LPS lamps are no longer produced, and their replacements, the LED bulbs, have been criticized for their blue light emissions, which have the potential to impact sleep patterns and harm wildlife.

Fortunately, there are several new technologies being developed to combat these issues. For example, the use of color-tunable LED bulbs can help reduce blue light emissions. These bulbs can be adjusted to emit different color temperatures, which can help reduce the impact of blue light on the environment and health. Similarly, the use of shielded fixtures and directional lighting can help reduce the spread of light pollution by directing light downwards.

In addition to using the right kind of light bulbs, there are several other lighting restrictions that can help mitigate light pollution. One common approach is to implement light curfews or restrictions, which limit the use of artificial lights during certain times of the day or night. For example, some cities have implemented regulations that require the turning off of all non-essential lights between certain hours, such as from midnight to dawn. Such regulations can be effective in reducing light pollution.

Another effective approach is to use lighting controls that turn off lights automatically when they are not needed. This includes motion sensors, occupancy sensors, and daylight sensors. These sensors can detect when people are present in a room or when there is sufficient natural light available, and can turn off the lights accordingly. This not only reduces light pollution but also helps save energy and reduce costs.

One example of a city that has successfully implemented lighting restrictions to combat light pollution is Flagstaff, Arizona. Flagstaff was designated as the world's first International Dark Sky City in 2008 due to its efforts to protect the night sky. The city has been a leader in outdoor lighting policy for decades, enacting the world’s first outdoor lighting ordinance in 1958.

Flagstaff's lighting ordinance requires all outdoor lighting to be shielded and directed downward, which helps reduce the spread of light pollution. The city also uses LPS lighting in its streetlights, which emit a soft, orange light that does not impact the night sky. Additionally, Flagstaff has implemented strict regulations on the use of artificial light during the night, including a ban on non-essential lighting between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

In conclusion, mitigating the impact of light pollution requires a multi-faceted approach that includes using the right kind of light bulbs and implementing effective lighting restrictions. While LPS lighting was once considered the gold standard for reducing light pollution, new technologies such as color-tunable LED bulbs and lighting controls are becoming more readily available. Flagstaff, Arizona, is a great example of a city that has successfully implemented lighting restrictions to combat light pollution and has been designated as the world's first International Dark Sky City. By implementing these strategies, we can help reduce the negative environmental, physical, and health implications of artificial light pollution.

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