In order to protect nocturnal animals from light pollution and make the night sky significantly clearer, the Waverley Council has taken action by encouraging the dimming of lights during the evening.
In February, the Waverley Council passed a resolution to cut down on light pollution. There are currently plans in the works by the Northern Beaches Council to establish an Urban Night Sky Place at Palm Beach Headland, as well as Dark Sky Reserves — vital facilities that restrict artificial light pollution — along the coast.
Waverley mayor Paula Masselos has commented that the council supports the creation of dark spaces for the benefit of nocturnal fauna, and for a better view of the night sky.
Artificial light throughout the suburb is in excess, creating artificial skyglow which is what happens when light escapes into the sky. This makes the stars, the moon, and the night sky more difficult to see; a problem for humans and the local fauna.
Nocturnal creatures in particular need to be able to see the night sky to hunt and find mates, however light pollution is steadily making that more difficult. Other animals like turtles rely on natural light horizons to tell where the ocean is.
Light pollution has caused complications for wildlife before, with artificial lights disrupting the behavioural patterns in animals such as turtles, birds, and insects. Baby turtles would find themselves scurrying towards the city, drawn to the light, and move further and further away from the ocean. Insects such as moths also find themselves drawn to light, making them easy targets for predators.
Despite the important role artificial lights play in terms of public safety, it is essential to develop alternative safety measures as light pollution is an indicator of energy being wasted. Such examples could potentially include motion sensors for street lights to make sure they only activate when people or vehicles are nearby.
Sydney residents can also take matters into their own hands and fight light pollution locally by replacing high-energy bulbs with cheaper and less power-consuming CFL and LED floodlights. Minimising light usage at home is also an efficient way at combating light pollution, making sure to use them only when they’re necessary.
