The Issue of Light Pollution

Letter to Legislators

Dear esteemed Connecticut Legislators and to whom it may concern,

As a private citizen and taxpayer in Connecticut, I am organizing and circulating this petition in an effort to raise awareness on the growing issue of light pollution.

The growing problem of light pollution, waste lighting that is estimated to cost the American people as a whole billions of dollars worth of wasted energy each year.  The recommendations also seek to reduce or eliminate glare and light trespass, factors that actually reduce safety.  A growing number of cities and states are finding that better lighting enhances the quality of life by improving the night-time safety and appearance of cities and rural areas.  Good lighting means not so much eliminating night lighting as improving the overall quality of lighting - putting light on the ground where it is needed, and keeping it out of the sky and surrounding properties where it is not needed or wanted.

--Glare reduces visibility and safety.  Properly designed and installed fixtures will improve driving safety by keeping poor lighting from shining directly into drivers' eyes.

--Part of being a good neighbor is lighting one's property without intruding light on surrounding areas.

--Using modern fixtures yields a net savings in energy costs.  Directing the lighting to the subject and to the ground where it is most cost effective is the essence of good lighting.

--Local governments and local Municipalities should take a leadership role in lighting standards by using the most effective shielding possible.

--Light pollution has a negative effect on the growing hobby of amateur astronomy and backyard stargazing.  This educational hobby has a positive impact on the community by encouraging children to take an interest in science - light pollution makes astronomy less interesting and stargazing equipment less effective.

Other municipalities around the country and around the world have already taken positive action on this issue.  Many have enacted light pollution ordinances in an effort to reduce the problem.  Many have implemented these successful codes what they have done should and could be used as a template for action in our state.

We strongly recommend taking into consideration this matter and follow the footsteps that others have taken in enacting light pollution ordinances as a gesture of good faith towards the taxpayer.  Enacting these ordinances will save money, improve safety, and help the environment.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned