If you live in a large city, it’s unlikely that you can see the stars. Many city dwellers can only see the moon and a few of the brightest stars in the sky.
Light pollution causes many environmental problems as well such as interfering with animal migration. We can all do our part to stop light pollution. Read this guide to learn how to reduce light pollution.
What’s the Big Deal With Light Pollution?
Since the industrial revolution, urban streets have been brightened with outdoor lighting. This artificial lighting, or light pollution, causes many problems.
Light pollution has been blamed for the gradual disappearance of fireflies. Migratory birds have also flown into towers because they were misdirected by artificial light sources. It affects human health as well. That’s why many people are looking for ways to reduce light pollution.
Light pollution also prevents millions of children from seeing the stars in the night sky. Reducing light pollution will allow us to break out the beginner’s guide to astronomy books so we can teach our children about the stars.
1. Turn Off the Lights
If you want to join the cause but don’t know how to help reduce light pollution, don’t worry. The first thing you can do is simply turn off lights that you are not using. It’s cheap, effective, and everyone can do it. Turn the lights on when you need them and turn them off afterward.
Place outdoor lights on a timer and make sure they are pointed downward. You can even install a cover over them to ensure the light is only traveling downward where it is needed.
2. Replace Outdoor Lights
If you’re already switching off the light but still asking, “How can I reduce light pollution?” here is another idea. There are a few types of outdoor lights that are sky-friendly. The International Dark-Sky Association has a list of light fixtures that are low glare and efficient. Replace your outdoor lighting with one of these fixtures. Before you install new fixtures be sure to look for the IDA seal of approval on the box.
3. Minimize Your Use of Lights
Celebrations and parties often lead to excessive decorative lighting. Sometimes these lights are kept on all day long! Reduce light pollution by eliminating the amount of decorative lighting is used at your next party. Try environmentally friendly candles instead to give off a festive glow.
If you use light outside your home for security reasons, consider installing a security system instead. Or you can install motion sensor lights that only come on when they detect movement.
Learn How to Reduce Light Pollution and Enjoy the Stars!
Minimizing light pollution is good for the environment, human health, and animals. The light pollution reduction tips will get you on the way to seeing the stars once again. Share this guide on how to reduce light pollution with your friends and family and encourage them to turn off the lights with you and be sure to read our other articles on ways to live environmentally friendly.
