Light pollution impacts astronomy and ecosystems

Light pollution, caused by excessive artificial lighting from street lamps, advertisements, and building illumination, is increasingly obscuring the stars and impacting both human and natural environments. The phenomenon affects astronomical observations, making it difficult for telescopes to detect faint celestial objects.

Beyond astronomy, artificial light disrupts the natural day-night cycles of humans, animals, and plants. It can disorient migratory birds and attract nocturnal insects, potentially upsetting ecological balances.

To raise awareness, the Earth Night initiative encourages individuals, companies, and municipalities to reduce or switch off unnecessary lighting. The next Earth Night event is scheduled for September 11, 2026, aiming to demonstrate the value of darkness and promote more conscious light usage.