Home / Environment / Stars Vanish: Australia's Cities Blotted by Light Pollution
Stars Vanish: Australia's Cities Blotted by Light Pollution
30 May
Summary
- Light pollution from human activity increased 16% globally between 2014 and 2022.
- Melbourne and Perth skies are 69 and 50 times brighter than natural levels.
- Artificial light impacts all life, altering behaviour and physiology.
Light pollution poses a significant threat to Australia's stargazing potential and nocturnal ecosystems. Cities like Melbourne and Perth register the highest levels of light pollution, with their night skies being 69 and 50 times brighter than natural, respectively. Globally, artificial light from human activities saw a net increase of 16% between 2014 and 2022, a trend affecting wildlife behaviour and physiology.
While urban areas struggle with skyglow, some regions are taking action. Efforts are underway to implement better lighting strategies, focusing on directing light downwards, reducing intensity, and using warmer colour temperatures. Councils are exploring dark sky initiatives to mitigate these effects and preserve the night sky for future generations.
