The dark nights have a long history of signaling life forms when to rest, hunt, migrate and locate their breeding grounds. Humans used lighting for an array of reasons without awareness of its impact on us and other beings. The first studies revealed that a wide range of life cycles were paying the price for light pollution. Fortunately, there are lighting solutions. The bright stars in the night sky have been our celebrated life companions. Since we humans feel vulnerable in the dark, the arrival of fire showed promise to conquer our fears. Over the next centuries, humans developed lighting that turned night into day, allowing for extended daytime activities. In the later part of the 19th Century, the effects of light pollution already raised concerns, but it didn't receive scientific attention until the 1950s.

Further research let us know these findings of Light Pollution:

• It interrupts the human sleep cycle, which causes hormone fluctuation, resulting in increased anxiety levels, headaches, etc.
• The reproduction of night-blooming plants is hindered because the pollinating moths’ reproduction is light affected.
• Night migrating birds get disoriented, collide with illuminated structures.
• Amphibians and reptiles, losing their ’night compass‘, can‘t locate their breeding grounds.

The good news is that each of us can help reduce Light Pollution:

• Think twice before hanging lights in your garden.
• Use motion lights and time sensors.
• Direct your light fixtures downward.
• Avoid unnecessary lighting.

Eager to become a light reduction advocate? Here is a helpful resource for your new frontier: International Dark-Sky Association