• • • LIGHTING & LIGHTING CONTROLS • • • Dark skies


Dominic Harkness, lighting design supervisor at Ansell Lighting, provides an insight to lighting effectively whilst protecting our dark skies


M


uch is written about the wasteful use of resources such as electricity and water, but our industry does not always consider


the waste of light itself, and the issues this can cause for the natural environment. The fact is that much outdoor lighting used at


night is overly bright, poorly targeted, improperly shielded, which causes light pollution. Light pollution washes out starlight in the night sky, interferes with astronomical research, disrupts ecosystems, has adverse health effects, and wastes energy. Essential for safety, security, work and recreation


during hours of darkness; outdoor lighting is a necessity few can live without. The need for outdoor lighting continues to grow but with it, so too does the problem of light pollution. Much of the lighting we use at night is


inefficient. This light pollution is having an adverse effect on the global ecosystem, contributing to an array of issues such as climate change, poor human health and disrupting the natural patterns of wildlife. Approximately eight out of 10 people now live


under light-polluted night sky, showcasing how widespread this problem is, but by working together manufacturers and wholesalers can undoubtedly support installers to create lighting systems that emit little light pollution and help in the fight to reclaim dark skies.


The primary focus in the industry is that of


designing and producing outdoor lighting products that give off minimal light pollution. The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has


developed the Fixture Seal of Approval programme, an important product accreditation that wholesalers should look out for when selecting product ranges to stock. Providing objective, third-party certification, the


programme encourages responsible product design and manufacturing, rewarding products that are dark sky friendly to ensure they stand out in the market place. In addition to producing and selling products


that minimize glare and reduce light trespass, manufacturers and wholesalers can work together to support installers to cut light pollution by providing specialist advice and training on lighting design that protects and restores the natural night environment. The first thing installers should be encouraged


to consider is whether lighting is required and if so, exactly where and when it is needed. By ensuring illumination is only created in spaces where and when desired, much less light pollution is generated. The level of illumination required is another important consideration to take at this stage. Secondly; time and attention should be given to product selection and the benefits/properties of


those chosen. Alongside IDA approved products, it’s important that installers are advised to select robust luminaires with optics that combine advanced lens technology and enhanced glare control designs. These products will ensure a minimal amount of light is emitted upward, preventing light pollution. A fixed mounting system is also advisable, helping to ensure that light is distributed in line with photometric testing and the lighting design itself. Finally, careful consideration of the controls and


equipment used is another important element in the design of low-polluting lighting installations. Products which have integral control, such as


selectable colour temperature and selectable power function are a must as they can be set to optimise colour, performance, and energy usage. Integral electronic photocell, microwave sensor and smart options are also recommended, ensuring products are only in use exactly when they are needed. As with all situations where a change in


approach and habits are desired, by providing the right equipment alongside education and advice, installers can feel encouraged and supported to play an active role in reducing light pollution, designing systems that minimise the amount of blue light in the night-time environment and disrupt our natural world.


30 ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING • DECEMBER 2022/JANUARY 2023


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