top of page
"Of all the pollution we face, light pollution is perhaps the most easily remedied". - Yerlyn Klinkenborg
"Our lives begin to end, the day we become silent about things that matter"
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
What Is Light Pollution?
Light pollution is the inappropriate or excessive use of artificial light. It can have serious environmental consequences for humans, wildlife, and our climate, and it hinders astronomy. Components of light pollution include:
-
Glare – excessive brightness that causes visual discomfort
-
Skyglow – brightening of the night sky over inhabited areas
-
Light trespass – light falling where it is not intended or needed
-
Clutter – bright, confusing and excessive groupings of light sources
Color Matters
The color of visable light is determined by correlated color temperature (CCT). The CCT is measured in Kelvins (K). The American Medical Association (AMA) and International Dark-Sky Association (lDA) recommend lights be less than 3000K and a soft, warm orange light. Research shows white, bright blue light is harmful for eyes.
Cool, white, bright light. Very hard on eyes at night time.
CCT: 4000K and higher
Soft, warm orange light. Much easier on eyes at night time. CCT 3500K or lower. The lower the K the better.
CCT:
5000K
4000K
3000K
2000K
bottom of page