DarkSky International has announced significant updates to its DarkSky Approved Luminaires program, a globally recognized certification initiative aimed at combating the escalating crisis of light pollution. Originally launched in 2002 as the Fixture Seal of Approval, the program has evolved into a trusted benchmark for manufacturers and consumers seeking lighting solutions that protect the nighttime environment while maintaining safety and functionality.
The Need for Responsible Lighting
Excessive and poorly designed outdoor lighting has far-reaching consequences: it disrupts wildlife, impacts human health, wastes energy, and obscures our view of the night sky. Despite the apparent controllability of artificial light, light pollution continues to rise due to fragmented regulations and inconsistent application of best practices. DarkSky International’s program addresses these gaps by providing clear, science-based guidelines for outdoor lighting.
Program Evolution and Its Core Principles
The recent updates make the DarkSky Approved Luminaires program more accessible, effective, and closely aligned with DarkSky’s Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting at Night. These principles, developed in collaboration with lighting engineers, designers, and experts in ecology, wildlife, and health, are:
- All light should have a clear purpose.
- Light should be directed only where it is needed.
- Light should be no brighter than necessary.
- Light should be used only when it is useful.
- Warmer-color lights should be used where possible.
These guidelines ensure that outdoor lighting minimizes glare, skyglow, and light trespass while enhancing safety and usability.
Key Updates and Expanded Categories
The updated program introduces expanded categories to address diverse outdoor lighting needs:
Residential Luminaires: For single-family homes and small residential buildings, with strict limits on brightness (under 1,000 lumens) and color temperature (maximum 3000K).
Commercial Luminaires: For businesses, public spaces, and roadways, with stringent controls on uplight and glare, especially at high angles to reduce skyglow.
Pedestrian Comfort Luminaires: Designed for walkways and public areas, these fixtures have reduced lumen output and stricter high-angle light restrictions to enhance pedestrian experience.
Wildlife-Tuned Luminaires: Specially designed to protect sensitive habitats, such as those of sea turtles, by using appropriate shielding and color spectra.
These tailored classifications reflect the diversity of outdoor lighting applications and reinforce the program’s commitment to both human and ecological health.
Technical and Administrative Criteria
To earn the DarkSky Approved seal, luminaires must meet rigorous technical criteria:
- Minimal uplight and glare
- Dimmability to 10% or less of full output
- Restriction of short-wavelength (bluish) light
- Compliance with output and color temperature limits specific to each category
Manufacturers undergo a streamlined application and review process, including submission fees and annual renewal requirements to maintain certification. Approved products are listed in a searchable database, making it easier for consumers and professionals to make responsible lighting choices.
Impact and Call to Action
The DarkSky Approved seal is a respected symbol of quality and environmental stewardship. It helps manufacturers distinguish their products in a competitive market and signals to consumers that their lighting choices contribute to the protection of the night. DarkSky International encourages both manufacturers and consumers to join the movement by adopting products and practices that align with the Five Principles.
More information is available here.
All images: darksky.org
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