Around Town

The Dark Side Of Light

Thursday, Nov 12, 2015

In cities and suburbs throughout the world, it has become nearly impossible to see the natural light of stars due to the flood of artificial light emanating from homes, buildings, outdoor advertisements, and street lamps.

Today, light pollution remains largely unchecked, with dire consequences for human health and well-being, the natural functioning of ecosystems, and energy conservation. Also, the energy costs to society for having artificial lights glaring 24/7 has become unsupportable. While implementation of energy-saving outdoor lighting (such as the LED street light program in NYC) is reducing energy use but may not be adequately addressing human health and light pollution issues.

This symposium will explore these issues and discuss both current and incoming solutions: Outdoor lights to design downward instead of upward or outward, sensors that turn outdoor lights off when not needed, and communities that demand technologically-advanced public and private night-lighting.

Sponsor and Outreach Partners: Building Energy Exchange (BEEx), Designer Lighting Forum of NY, Illuminating Engineering Society - NYC Section, NY Passive House, the Sallan Foundation & Solar1

Speakers: Jason Neches - L'Observatoire International & Fred Maxik - Light Science Group

Date: Thursday, November 12, 9 - 10:30 AM

Location BEEx, 31 Chambers Street, Room 609

RSVP: Eventbrite