Through example and incentives, Cities and the County can begin to reduce unnecessary night light pollution by following FWC’s document labeled “Rebuild with Wildlife in Mind” (attached) and examples given on International Dark-Sky Associations (https://www.darksky.org) website.  At minimum switching from higher color temperature to a lower color temperature light as they are less harsh and therefore less harmful to human health and the natural environment (sea turtles, Panama city crayfish, migratory birds, etc.).

Light pollution affects us all!  Improved human health, human safety, wildlife behavior, and reduced energy consumption.   

Specifically adopting Dark Skies Initiatives will: 

1) Reduce energy waste—Its estimated that about 35% of light is wasted;

2) Reduce crime and increase safety—studies show either equal or increased crime in areas brightly lit at night; 

3) Reduce light pollution effects on wildlife and natural habitats (reduce sea turtle and bird migration disorientations to name a few—deadly to both);

4) Improve human health–Studies report that exposure to artificial light at night can harm your health by altering natural light-dark cycles.