Protecting the night. Perfecting the light.
RESPONSIBLE
NIGHT-SENSITIVE LIGHTING
For millennia, the natural rhythm of day and night has shaped life on Earth. Darkness is more than just the absence of light – it is essential for ecosystems, human well-being, and climate impact. But with increasing urbanization and artificial lighting, the natural night is disappearing. As cities grow brighter, uncontrolled lighting spills into the sky, disrupts wildlife, and leads to excessive energy consumption. At the same time, well-designed lighting can enhance safety, create atmosphere, and improve quality of life – if used responsibly.
Achieving this balance requires a new approach: responsible, night-sensitive lighting. Light should be used only where and when it is needed, minimizing skyglow, reducing glare, and preserving natural darkness. At LED Linear™, we actively combat light pollution by adhering to DarkSky International Standards, ensuring that our lighting solutions contribute to a more sustainable and well-balanced nighttime environment.
But what happens when we ignore these principles?
Uncontrolled artificial lighting has far-reaching consequences, affecting wildlife, energy consumption, and human well-being.
About DarkSky
The DarkSky Association is a worldwide organization founded in the USA in 1988 dedicated to combating light pollution, preserving the natural night landscape and protecting ecosystems and human well-being through responsible lighting. With offices in multiple locations worldwide, DarkSky raises awareness, advocates for policies, and certifies products that meet stringent light pollution standards. By working globally, DarkSky plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting responsible lighitng solutionsatural nightscapes.
The Core Goals of DarkSky
- Reducing Light Pollution – Minimizing unnecessary artificial lighting.
- Protecting Ecosystems – Ensuring nocturnal wildlife is not disturbed.
- Promoting Energy Efficiency – Encouraging sustainable lighting solutions.
- Enhancing Human Well-Being – Supporting natural sleep cycles and health.
DarkSky luminaire requirements
- Restrict the amount of upward-directed light
- Avoid glare
- Avoid over-lighting
- Utilize dimming and other appropriate lighting controls
- Minimize short-wavelength (bluish) light in the nighttime environment
Five DarkSky principles for responsible outdoor lighting
1. Useful –
Use light only if it is needed
All light should have a clear purpose. Consider how the use of light will impact the area, including wildlife and their habitats.
2. Targeted –
Direct light only where needed
Use shielding and careful aiming to target the direction of the light beam so that it points downwards and does not spill beyond where it is needed.
3. Low level –
Light should not be too bright
Use the lowest light level required. Be mindful of surface conditions, as some surfaces reflect more light into the night sky than intended.
4. Controlled –
Use light only when needed
Use controls such as timers or motion detectors to ensure that light is available when it is needed, dimmed when possible, and turned off when not needed.
5. Warm-colored –
Use warmer color lights where possible
Limit the amount of shorter wavelength (blue-violet) light to the least amount needed.
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Datasheet – Static White
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Datasheet – Tunable White
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Downloads
Data sheet – Top View
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Data sheet – 3D
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