Light pollution - what is it and how can it be reduced?

Light pollution - a growing environmental challenge

Light pollution is a nuisance caused by artificial light that affects both the environment and people's quality of life. The most common forms of light pollution are diffuse, glare and upward light, which unnecessarily illuminate areas where light is not useful. This not only consumes energy unnecessarily, but also harms wildlife, ecosystems and human circadian rhythms. Light pollution has become a major issue, as urbanisation is increasing the number of illuminated areas. The disappearance of dark skies at night is having a major impact on both the environment and astronomical observations.

The European Union and international environmental organisations have drawn increasing attention to the effects of light pollution and have stressed the need for responsible lighting design. However, optimising lighting and limiting harmful light are not only environmental issues - they can also save significant amounts of energy and money for municipalities and cities.

New opportunities for outdoor lighting to reduce light pollution

Modern lighting technology offers tools that can significantly reduce light pollution. These solutions include demand-responsive light control, optics optimisation and spectrum adjustment according to environment and use. These technologies can not only achieve more environmentally friendly lighting, but also significant energy savings and improved lighting quality.

1. Targeted lighting with optimised lens technologies

Optimising light distributions reduces stray light and focuses light precisely where it is needed. This reduces unnecessary lighting in the environment, such as the sky or building facades.

2. Appropriate control

Intelligent lighting systems allow the intensity and colour temperature of light to be adjusted according to the time of day or the use of the area. This allows lighting to be brighter and more energy efficient at busier times, but dimmer and less intrusive during quieter hours of the night.

3. Respect for the environment and nature

Outdoor lighting can use technologies that reduce the harmful effects of blue light on wildlife and maintain the ecological balance of areas. This is particularly important in nature reserves and in forests and parks close to settlements.

Biodiversity - can you put a price on it?

Many purchasing decision-makers wonder whether taking nature into account in lighting design is really worth the investment. While using Amber lenses or reducing light pollution, for example, may add to the initial cost, the question is: what is the cost of lost biodiversity? If animal circadian rhythms are disrupted, nesting areas are lost or plant species suffer, the effects can be permanent. The Isomäki lighting project in Pori is an excellent example of how Amber technology can be used to create safe lighting that maintains the balance of the area's fragile ecosystems. Is it realistic to think that in 15 years' time it will still be possible to correct the mistakes that led to permanent changes in the environment? Protecting nature is not just a question of cost, but a value choice - a decision that will affect the environment and well-being of future generations. By choosing a responsible lighting solution now, you are demonstrating that your city's values have at their core not only sustainability but also a vibrant natural environment.

Greenled technologies for managing the light pollution

Greenled offers innovative solutions that combine energy efficiency, sustainability and environmental considerations. These technologies can reduce light pollution and optimise lighting performance.

1. Dual Channel - dynamic control of lighting

Dual Channel technology allows the colour temperature and brightness of lighting to be precisely controlled according to the time of day and the environment. This reduces unnecessary light at night and improves the quality of lighting, for example during morning rush hours. Applications include main urban streets and residential areas where safety and energy saving are key.

2. Reflector lens - precise and glare-free lighting

Reflector lenses direct light precisely to the area to be illuminated, minimising stray light and glare. This solution is particularly useful in parks, pedestrian walkways and areas where people move close to lighting. Glare-free lighting improves the comfort and safety of all citizens.

3. Amber lens - true friend of the nature

Amber lenses eliminate the effects of blue light and protect environmental ecosystems. They are particularly suitable for nature reserves, parks and forest trails where disturbance to the circadian rhythms of animals and plants must be minimized. Amber technology also improves the experience of local residents by reducing glare and light pollution. Amber lense is essentially the most resposible decision any buyer can make, whenever making decision close to nature.  

Future lighting solutions today

Managing light pollution is not only an environmental issue, but also a way to improve urban energy efficiency, safety and quality of life for residents. Greenled's innovative solutions such as Dual Channel, Reflector Lens and Amber Lens offer an excellent opportunity to combine sustainability with economic benefits.

Download our brochure to learn more about Greenled's urban lighting solutions, or contact us to discuss which solutions are right for you.