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Effects of Light Pollution (https://www.globeatnight.org/light-pollution.php)

In disrupting ecosystems, light pollution poses a serious threat in particular to nocturnal
wildlife, having negative impacts on plant and animal physiology. It can confuse the migratory
patterns of animals, alter competitive interactions of animals, change predator-prey relations, and
cause physiological harm. The rhythm of life is orchestrated by the natural diurnal patterns of light and
dark; so, disruption to these patterns impacts the ecological dynamics.
With respect to adverse health effects, many species, especially humans, are dependent on
natural body cycles called circadian rhythms and the production of melatonin, which are
regulated by light and dark (e.g., day and night). If humans are exposed to light while sleeping,
melatonin production can be suppressed. This can lead to sleep disorders and other health problems
such as increased headaches, worker fatigue, medically defined stress, some forms of obesity due to
lack of sleep and increased anxiety. And ties are being found to a couple of types of cancer. There are
also effects of glare on aging eyes. (See text below.) Health effects are not only due to over-illumination
or excessive exposure of light over time, but also improper spectral composition of light (e.g., certain
colours of light).
With respect to energy waste, lighting is responsible for at least one-fourth of all electricity
consumption worldwide. Over illumination can constitute energy wastage, especially upward
directed lighting at night. Energy wastage is also a waste in cost and carbon footprint.

Source: Syazwan Faid et al. (2016)

This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This communication reflects the
views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the

information contained therein.
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