The impacts of air and water pollution have been studied for decades, but artificial light at night also has an adverse effect on our environment. How light at night affects human health is a great concern, as well as the disruption of the lives of animals and plants.

Responsible outdoor lighting means less wasted energy, which lowers our carbon footprint. Studies show that, after a minimum light level is met, more light is not safer. Glare from unshielded lights can be disabling. Let’s have a frank discussion of the mitigation measures townships can put into place to combat light pollution.