The term “light pollution” refers to the presence of unwelcome, improper or excessive lighting, whether it be during the day or at night.

Light pollution exposure has been linked to negative effects on:

  • Human health
  • Natural cycles of wildlife and plants
  • Scientific/astronomical viewing and research

The International Dark Sky Association works with manufacturers to evaluate and certify dark sky friendly outdoor lighting that reduces light pollution. This is achieved by following the below criteria:

Useful

Only use purposeful lighting which has a third-party safety accreditation and photometric files validating the lanterns performance.

Direction of Light

Reduce light overspill by providing shielding options and limiting the upward light.

The luminaire uplight allowance is 0.5% of total output or 50 lumens (whichever is lower), with less than 10 lumens in 90o-100o uplight zone.

Lanterns to have fixed mounting (with up to +/-10o tilt).

Low Level

No more light should be present than is necessary.

Controlled

Offer control and dimming options to ensure light levels are adjusted as required. Luminaires must have a dimming capability to 10% of full rating.

Warm Colour Temperature

Approved luminaires must have a CCT of 3000K or less to limit the amount of blue light emitted.

TRT Lighting is committed to protecting the night sky and is proud to announce that it achieved International Dark-Skies Association approval for eight of its product ranges.