Barb Foster is a member of the Dark Skies Committee, a non-profit in Leelanau County seeking to preserve our view of the night sky.
In her PowerPoint presentation Barb shared information about steps that can be taken to serve our lighting needs without adding to light pollution. A hundred years ago the night sky was visible to people all over the world. Today 83% of people around the world live under a light-polluted sky.
"Brighter" does not necessarily mean "safer." Studies have shown that no-glare, less-bright lighting is the safest at night. And the right outdoor lighting can cut energy use up to 70%.
A safe environment can be created while keeping the night natural by following some simple rules:
- Use fully shielded dark-sky friendly fixtures that shine down rather than up.
- Use lights only when and where needed.
- Use the right amount of light.
- Use long-wavelength lights with a red or yellow tint.
More information is available at www.darksky.org