Our view

The time has come for Government to take a clear lead in tackling light pollution.

There are almost no effective Government policies against light pollution and no targets to prevent it from continuing to increase, let alone to reduce the problem. We urge Government to develop an indicator that measures light pollution — such as our satellite data and maps — and introduce policies to prevent it from getting worse.

But it's not just a matter for central government. Local councils, manufacturers, builders, developers, and retailers are all called on to play their part by our light pollution campaign.

Councils lead the way with new lighting schemes
Councils around the country have been pioneering different methods to help reduce light pollution. These include:

South Tyneside Council is leading the country with 'Light-It', a £63 million scheme, using brighter, clearer white light (known as Cosmopolis) to replace street lighting. Fewer lights are needed which are spaced further apart; reducing light intrusion into properties and upward light pollution. The council has received formal recognition by the British Astronomical Association for its work.

Hampshire County Council have been introducing highly reflective road bollards to replace the more traditional illuminated versions. They have updated street lighting so lanterns use shielding to avoid light spilling onto adjacent properties.

Norfolk County Council's recycling centres are using sensitive lighting and CCTV rather than permanent dusk-to-dawn lighting at its 20 centres. The council has won a CPRE award.

Sunderland City Council's 31,000 lamp posts and 8,000 highway signs are being replaced. The builder they're working with has been awarded a certificate from the British Astronomical Association for helping to reduce light pollution in Sunderland.

Leicester City Council are replacing lighting using yellow bulbs along Church Gate, Gravel Street and Braunstone Gate with new white street lighting. This is primarily to improve CCTV coverage and deter crime but has had the added bonus of reducing light pollution.

Improving lighting in your home
You can be a part of the solution, as well. There are many straightforward and inexpensive things you can do, such as not shining exterior lights up into the night sky.