Light Pollution Solutions
Keep the source of the light hidden. This improves visibility and glare. Light trespass is normally stopped when every outdoor light is shielded so that the source of the light cannot be seen from a neighboring property.
Can we solve most of these problems and still have the light we desire outdoors at night? If we follow the recommendations of the International Dark-Sky Association outlined below, we can reduce, if not eliminate, most of these problems. (The one exception would be the full resolution of ecological damage. See the Health & Environment link above regarding this issue.)
1. Aim lights down.
2. Shield every light.
3. Reduce the amount of light.
4. Turn the light off when no one is there.
The source of light should be shielded so that it can not be seen above a horizontal line through the lowest part of the light source. To facilitate this requirement to aim lights down, install lights so that the fixture is above the area to be illuminated. Only light from below when all of the light will be blocked from shining above any structure.
Lighting an unoccupied area will not keep criminals away and may attract them. It’s just a waste of energy. A half-night photocontrol, X10 technology or a timer can help with this.
Consider the way the human eye works when selecting the amount of light for a particular outdoor application. Use significantly less light than is the modern habit to enhance night vision. Remember that a very bright light will make the unlit areas seem impossibly dark.
Effective Outdoor Lighting
Protective sleeve offered by Green Earth Lighting.
