Abstract

Summary

This paper analyzes 262 international citizen-action case studies (lawsuits and online petitions) related to light pollution, identifying trends and best practices since the 1990s. The resulting seven-step framework provides actionable guidance for communities seeking to implement ecologically and biologically responsible outdoor lighting policies.
Abstract

Key Findings

  • Analysis of 262 international case studies (lawsuits and online petitions) showed an increase in legal cases related to light pollution since the 1990s, driven by greater public awareness and access to scientific information.
  • Online petitions have emerged in the last decade as a new form of digital civic participation to mitigate light pollution effects.
  • A seven-step framework of recommendations was developed for citizens to guide development, implementation, and monitoring of outdoor lighting initiatives.
Categories

Categories

The Science of Light: Paper addresses artificial light at night (ALAN) and its documented negative impacts on health and wellbeing, contributing to lighting standards and policy frameworks.
Authors

Author(s)

KM Zielińska-Dabkowska, K Xavia, K Bobkowska
Publication Date

Publication Year

2020
Citations

Number of Citations

50
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