Light Pollution Policy & Regulations
A significant focus of our project is dedicated to analysing existing regulatory frameworks aimed at addressing light pollution, as well as proposing the most effective regulatory and policy measures to strengthen environmental protection efforts. Light pollution remains a largely overlooked issue, yet its impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems are profound. By identifying gaps and opportunities within current regulatory and policy frameworks, we aim to develop tailored solutions that empower stakeholders to take meaningful action. This work is crucial for advancing efforts to mitigate light pollution and fostering a more sustainable approach to outdoor lighting across Europe.
Policy Engagement: Call for Support
Together with DarkSky International, the PLAN-B project has developed a Light Pollution EU Policy Support Platform. This platform builds on the foundational work initiated during the Spanish Presidency of the EU Council in 2023, particularly the European Light Pollution Manifesto, which called for unified action to address light pollution across Europe. The Manifesto highlights the urgent need for coordinated measures to mitigate the harmful effects of artificial light at night (ALAN) and proposes strategies for monitoring and reducing light pollution, which will be integrated into existing and future EU-wide policy and legal frameworks.
The platform seeks your support to strengthen this initiative. By filling out the form, you will help demonstrate the breadth of public and institutional backing for protecting Europe’s nocturnal environment and reducing light pollution. Your support will provide valuable insights into the number of supporters and their geographic distribution, which will feed into the Light Pollution Policy Brief being prepared by the PLAN-B team for June 2025. This policy brief will incorporate key points from the Manifesto, while also expanding on its foundations and the project’s findings to drive forward actionable, EU-wide solutions. Together, we can build on this critical work and push for meaningful change to safeguard our night skies, biodiversity, and human well-being.
Database on Light Pollution Regulations: Search for light pollution laws around the world
DarkSky International, in collaboration with the University of Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law and one of our scientific coordinators, Yana Yakushina, has developed an open-access database of regulations and case law focused on outdoor lighting and light pollution mitigation. This comprehensive resource aims to provide easily accessible information on a wide range of regulatory frameworks, covering international, national, regional, and local levels across various jurisdictions worldwide. Designed to support researchers, advocates, and policymakers, the database offers critical insights into diverse regulatory approaches to tackling light pollution and preserving dark skies. By centralising this information, the initiative empowers stakeholders to learn from global best practices and drive forward effective, evidence-based solutions to address this pressing environmental issue.
Dark Sky International: Lighting Ordinance Templates
DarkSky International, a key member of PLAN-B’s advisory board, recently released its Templates for Lighting Codes and Statutes. These templates, which include a set of model lighting ordinances, are a collection of best practices for combating light pollution and its impacts. These templates provide a comprehensive framework for implementing responsible outdoor lighting, emphasising energy efficiency, wildlife protection, and reduced environmental disruption. Despite that, the templates are mainly focused on the U.S. legal system, the main principles and measures could be potentially used for the development of lighting regulations and policies in the EU setting.
The PLAN-B project is excited to share this invaluable resource with our stakeholder network. DarkSky’s work aligns closely with PLAN-B’s mission to better understand light pollution’s effects and promote effective mitigation strategies. By integrating these newly released ordinances into practices, European communities, policymakers, and urban planners can take meaningful steps toward reducing light pollution and fostering healthier, more sustainable environments. Together, we’re advancing solutions that protect biodiversity and create a brighter—or rather, darker—future for all.
Stay Tuned!
At PLAN-B, we are committed to delivering science-driven policy work and engaging our stakeholders on the increasingly critical issues of light and noise pollution. We have already begun providing valuable resources, such as the article Light Pollution Regulations and Where to Find Them, and will continue to share more insights with you in the near future. As part of our clustering activities, we are planning to host a series of webinars featuring experts from the PLAN-B team and our wider network. These sessions will explore the latest developments in light and noise pollution regulations, as well as the challenges associated with their implementation. Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to join these important discussions!