2.BenefitsofOutdoorLighting-Unihedron.docVIP

Keywords: accidents, artificial skyglow, astronomy, breast cancer, crime, greenhouse gas, light nuisance, light pollution, light trespass, obesity, outdoor lighting, sleep disturbance, sustainability A RATIONALE FOR THE MANDATORY LIMITATION OF OUTDOOR LIGHTING Barry A. J. Clark, PhD Director, Outdoor Lighting Improvement Section Astronomical Society of Victoria Inc. Summary The great value of artificial outdoor lighting has largely obscured the social, ecological and environmental problems resulting from present lighting practice. The exponential growth of outdoor lighting observed in Australia and elsewhere is unsustainable and greatly at odds with the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Artificial skyglow resulting largely from wasteful lighting design and overuse of lighting is increasingly hampering astronomical research and education. Stray light entering bedrooms at night disturbs sleep and contributes to sleepiness and fatigue, known factors in traffic and industrial accidents. Exposure to artificial light at night is also a known risk factor for breast cancer and other cancers, and it may be an underlying cause of widespread obesity. Outdoor lighting does not inhibit crime but increases it. Drastic reductions in outdoor ambient light levels are justified and will require legislation to be achieved. ___________________ This document is an extended version of a paper presented by the author at the 22nd National Australian Convention of Amateur Astronomers, which was hosted at Frankston, Victoria in April 2006 by the Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society. Document Version 1.0, 4 May 2006. Check for upgrades at the website of the Astronomical Society of Victoria Inc: .au Author contact: Dr Barry Clark, email bajc@.au , reference lp181a.doc ? Copyright B. A. J. Clark, Australia 2006. The copyright owner hereby gives permission for this document including this notice to be copied, stored, and transmitted in full by electronic means and printed in