A letter on light pollution by Eleanor Laming has been published in the Norwich Evening News on 19/4/23
Text as follows:
Dear Sir
This week (beginning 15 April) is International Dark Sky Week which aims to raise awareness of the effect of light pollution both on the ground and in orbit. Light pollution is of increasing concern locally as suburban areas are created via development on the outskirts of Norwich. Areas that were once rural agricultural landscapes are becoming industrial or residential areas with all that entails, and one of the consequences is excessive artificial light which floods our night sky.
Light pollution reduces our view of space from Earth. It also has a detrimental impact on all living things by affecting circadian rhythms and altering behaviour. Excessive use of lighting is a waste of electricity, raising costs and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Whatever can be done to make developments sensitive to these issues needs to be done, without compromising on safety. Light levels can be limited, timing of lighting can be controlled and light should be targeted effectively and shielded where appropriate. Certain types of light such as short wavelength blue-rich white light can have adverse effects and warm white light specifications should be used instead.
Modern technology ensures we have access to lighting control systems such as timers and motion sensors. Planning policies need to be fully utilised to ensure that an appropriate balance is struck between our need for lighting and the need to protect our environment from light pollution.
