Why is Belgium removing streetlights in Wallonia?

Belgium is removing streetlights in Wallonia as part of a radical project to reduce light pollution and preserve wildlife, particularly insects, birds, and amphibians.

What are the concerns about removing streetlights in Belgium?

Some local residents in Belgium have concerns about personal safety and the necessity of street lighting in rural areas, despite the ecological benefits.

What is the goal of Belgium's project to reduce light pollution?

The project aims to restore natural darkness by removing unnecessary streetlights, contributing to a broader global movement to mitigate the negative impacts of artificial light on ecosystems and human health.

Home / Environment / Belgium Dims Lights for Wildlife

Belgium Dims Lights for Wildlife

11 Feb

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Summary

75 streetlights removed in Wallonia to reduce light pollution.
Project aims to protect insects, birds, and amphibians from artificial light.
Local debate balances human safety concerns with ecological benefits.

In a unique initiative to combat severe light pollution, Belgium is systematically removing 75 streetlights in the Wallonia region. This radical project, initiated in 2021, targets unnecessary lighting within a protected national park near the French border, an area with minimal buildings and proximity to ecologically valuable Natura 2000 sites. The €308,000 investment by the national park is dedicated to restoring night-time darkness, treating it as an environmental restoration effort comparable to habitat improvement.

While the project has garnered support for its ecological aims, it faces local apprehension. Residents like André Detournay voiced concerns about personal safety and the perceived need for street lighting in rural areas. Project leader Nicolas Goethals emphasizes that ensuring public safety remains paramount, but research suggests that street lighting's impact on crime and road safety is not always conclusive. Efforts are underway to educate the public through local talks and night walks, advocating for personal lighting solutions like vests and torches for night travel.