Most of us are familiar with air, water, and land pollution, but did you know that light can also be a pollutant?
The inappropriate or excessive use of artificial light is known as light pollution. At night it confuses wildlife, costs money and resources, annoys neighbours, and reduces our experience of the wonders of the universe in the night sky.
An article in The Guardian claimed that 'Stars could be invisible within 20 years as light pollution brightens night skies'.
In the countryside surrounding Harleston we still have star filled skies. The Neighbourhood Plan recognises the problem and seeks to ensure that lighting is appropriate, well shrouded and does not diminish the rural ambience of the town.
Simple measures by everyone can make a difference. Only use lighting when and where it’s needed. If safety is concern, install motion detector lights and timers. Properly shield all outdoor lights and keep brightness
to no more than necessary. Keep blinds and curtains drawn to keep light inside.
Together 'We Can'.
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