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GS Foundation (P+M) - Delhi: 27 June, 3:00 PM
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The June Exclusive Offer UPTO 75% Off, Valid Till : 6 June 2025
GS Foundation (P+M) - Delhi: 27 June, 3:00 PM
GS Foundation (P+M) - Prayagraj: 22 June, 5:30 PM
Light Pollution: Environmental, Biological, and Societal Challenges
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Current Affairs
Light pollution refers to the excessive, misdirected, or obtrusive use of artificial outdoor light.
It is a growing environmental concern that negatively impacts human health, wildlife, ecosystems, and astronomical observations.
Types of Light Pollution
Skyglow
Brightening of the night sky over populated areas.
Makes it difficult to see stars and celestial bodies.
Glare
:
Excessive brightness that causes visual discomfort, especially for drivers.
Light Trespass
:
Unwanted or intrusive light entering someone’s property or home.
Clutter:
Bright, confusing, and excessive groupings of light sources, especially in urban areas.
Impact on Human Health
Disruption of Circadian Rhythm
The human body has a natural biological clock (circadian rhythm), regulated by the light-dark cycle.
Exposure to artificial light at night inhibits melatonin production a hormone essential for sleep and brain health.
Link to Alzheimer's disease (AD)
A recent study highlighted that exposure to night-time light pollution increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Mechanism:
Disrupted sleep cycles →
poor memory consolidation.
Chronic melatonin suppression →
increased amyloid-beta accumulation in the brain—a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.
Other Health Effects
Insomnia
and poor sleep quality.
Depression
, mood disorders.
Obesity
,
diabetes
, and
cardiovascular diseases
due to hormonal imbalances.
Breast and prostate cancer risks
due to long-term melatonin suppression.
Impact on Biodiversity and Ecosystems
Birds and Animals
Migratory birds rely on stars for navigation. Skyglow and bright city lights confuse their paths, leading to fatal building collisions.
Artificial light increases visibility of prey, making them vulnerable to predators.
Disruption in the reproductive cycles of nocturnal animals like frogs, bats, and turtles.
Insects and Pollination
Artificial lights attract insects, leading to exhaustion and death.
Pollinator insects like moths are drawn away from flowers, reducing pollination and affecting plant reproduction.
Ecosystem Imbalance
Change in predator-prey dynamics.
Alters nocturnal foraging behaviour, habitat selection, and species distribution.
Impact on Astronomy
Skyglow hampers visibility of celestial objects.
Makes scientific observations difficult from ground-based observatories.
Loss of cultural and scientific connection with the night sky.
Impact on Energy and Climate
Wasted lighting consumes energy, often produced via fossil fuels.
Increases carbon footprint and contributes to climate change.
Economic Cost
Billions are spent annually on inefficient or unnecessary lighting.
Energy wastage adds to urban expenses and electricity load.
Measures to Mitigate Light Pollution
Use of Fully Shielded Fixtures:
Ensures light is directed downward and not upward into the sky.
Smart Lighting Technologies:
Motion-sensor lights, time-controlled street lights.
Reduced Luminosity and Warm Lighting:
Use of low-intensity, warm colour temperature LEDs.
Legislation and Urban Planning:
Light pollution regulations in cities and towns.
Dark Sky" reserves like in Ladakh (India's first).
Public Awareness Campaigns:
Encourage responsible lighting in homes and businesses.
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA):
Mandatory EIA for major lighting projects near wildlife habitats.
Legal and Policy Aspects
India does not yet have a dedicated national policy on light pollution.
However, guidelines are being considered under the Environment Protection Act.
The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) promotes dark-sky-friendly lighting globally.
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