Being aware of the problem is the first step. Light pollution can be tackled easily with just a few minutes thought before using or installing exterior lighting fixtures.

For Home Owners

Ensure you don't waste light outside your house:

1. Angle outdoor lights downwards;
2. Use minimum wattage bulbs;
3. Fit hoods or shields to minimise light spill;
4. Ensure lights are switched on only when needed or have a motion sensor installed which will save energy and deter trespassers.

Aim any outdoor lights at the ground, not at people's eyes or directed onto roads and ensure there is no light encroachment on other properties.

Good outdoor light with light directed downwards.

Approach neighbours - be they households or businesses - with overly bright "security" floodlights and politely ask them to angle their exterior lights downwards, shield them or fit a motion sensor or a lower wattage bulb.

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For Builders, Architects and Lighting Engineers

Exterior lights are sometimes an after though of design or worse, they can be at the forefront of design for light sculpting the night sky! By designing your buildings and landscapes with respect to the reduction of light pollution, you can achieve a higher quality and better looking design with minimal outlay.

Download this Institute of Lighting Engineers guidance notice.

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We can all take an active role in reducing light pollution in our area. Letters of concern to our local planners, lighting engineers, MPs, councillors and major firms DOES make a difference. Most MPs can be contacted by e-mail and heightening awareness of the problem is the first step.

Click here to read the e-mail to my local MP regarding light pollution. Click on the images below to read the replies I received.

 

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