Artificial light at night and its various effects
LED light does not help against light pollution, explains the Office of Technology Assessment at the German Bundestag (TAB): "The short-wave blue light spectrum of LEDs is suspected of having adverse effects on human health and the environment. In addition, the low-cost availability of low-energy LEDs is leading to their ever more widespread use."
First law against light pollution in Upper Austria
In Austria, the federal state of Upper Austria plays a pioneering role in the fight against light pollution. In addition to showcase communities against the careless use of artificial light, Austria's first Dark Sky Park with the Attersee-Traunsee Star Park has also emerged from the constant intensive work. For the first time, this commitment has now resulted in legal requirements for the implementation of outdoor lighting systems. It is now specified how future street lighting should look and be implemented in terms of light color, brightness and beam angle. The amendment also allows municipalities to switch off outdoor lighting completely at night!
The Upper Austrian doctor and star photographer Dr. Hager is also pleased about the new regulations. "The current excess of artificial light can quickly disrupt the human day-night rhythm with all its negative effects on health. Sleep disorders, hormonal imbalances or an increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer are just a few examples," emphasizes Dr. Hager.
Increasing light pollution has a negative impact on our health
Dr. Martin Schwarz, insect researcher at the Upper Austrian Biodiversity Centre, also emphasizes: "In addition to habitat destruction and the intensive use of land, light pollution is another significant threat to insects, thousands of which are nocturnal. Less night-time lighting prevents an unnecessary massacre of nocturnal insects."
