Wildlife & ecosystems
Artificial light at night can change natural nighttime conditions. Species-specific guidance should always come from current, authoritative research.
DarkSky South Florida
What is light pollution?
Light pollution is the human-made alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally. Much of it comes from light that is too bright, poorly aimed, the wrong color, or left on when it is not needed.
What is light pollution? chapter photographyImage, alt text, credit, source and link are editable in Pages CMS.
In plain language
Useful light stays where it belongs.
The goal is not to remove every light. It is to use light thoughtfully—supporting visibility and safety while reducing wasted light, glare, spill into neighboring areas, and illumination of the sky.
Learn from DarkSky InternationalFour common forms
What light pollution looks like
More than one form can come from the same fixture or illuminated site.
- 01
Skyglow
The brightening of the night sky over populated areas. It can be visible far beyond the lights that create it.
- 02
Light trespass
Light falling where it is not wanted or needed, such as a fixture shining into a neighboring home or habitat.
- 03
Glare
Excessive brightness that causes visual discomfort and can make it harder—not easier—to see.
- 04
Clutter
Bright, confusing groups of light sources that compete for attention and reduce visual clarity.
Why it matters
The issue reaches beyond astronomy.
DarkSky International identifies effects involving wildlife and ecosystems, human well-being, energy and climate, safety, and our shared night-sky heritage.
People & communities
Comfort, visibility, neighborhood character, and the ability to rest all belong in conversations about nighttime lighting.
Energy & cost
Light sent upward, outward, or left on without a useful purpose consumes energy without completing the intended task.
The night sky
Skyglow reduces our view of stars and changes how residents and visitors experience the region after dark.
Take the next step