Light Pollution: The Causes And Effects Of Light Pollution

Having electricity is something that most people feel they need to be comfortable and safe in their day to day lives. So much so, that the demand for lighting has increased rapidly over the years. This increase in demand also includes the usage of artificial lighting which also contributes greatly to light pollution. Light pollution has had an unfavorable effect on the planet and this includes humans, animals, and plants as a whole.

Light pollution is the “inappropriate or excessive usage of light causing glare, sky glow, and light trespass”. (IDA). Too much light washes out starlight in the night sky, which causes a lot of problems on earth (Haas). The more we educate ourselves on the effects of light pollution, the more effective we can be at minimizing the effects.

In 1908 there were photos taken at “Los Angeles basin and shows; they noticed city’s night light was creating atmospheric radiance; which was blocking the view of the sky” (Bower). Light pollution is an environmental issue that is advancing rapidly causing concern for everyone. It has increased over the years due to the “growth of cities population, as well as the types of buildings being constructed such as, outdoor sports stadiums and billboards” (Lerner, et al).

There are various different types of light pollution that are causing damage to the world. Outdoor stadiums and billboards all create what is called light trespass. This is “a type of light that spills outside the area that is designated to illuminate to neighborhood properties” (Astronomical Society of South Australia). Light Trespass can also interfere with your sleep and reduced privacy (Lerner, et al). Street lights are also a good example of trespass pollution; because “the light from the outside can come inside your home”