Outdoor Lighting

Improper use of outdoor lighting can waste energy, create safety issues, and keep the night skies from being dark, impeding amateur astronomy and appreciation of the night sky. Members of Acton’s former Outdoor Lighting Education Committee have written up this guide to proper outdoor lighting, and are available for consultation at outdoorlighting@greenacton.org.

Background: Good Neighbor Outdoor Lighting

Light pollution from excess artificial light causes problems for people and wildlife. Sometimes we cannot even see the stars because of unnecessary artificial lights shining upward. We can reduce the problem through community awareness, legislation (for example, requiring shielding on outdoor lights), and improved lighting technology.Detrimental effects of poor outdoor lighting include glare, light trespass… Continue reading →