Dark Nature

For more than 150 years, humans have used electric lighting to power progress and shape modern society — without fully understanding the biological consequences.

Today, we know that excessive light at night disrupts both human and animal biological systems, with harmful effects on health, behavior, and ecosystems.

More than 80% of the world’s population now lives under light-polluted skies.

Light pollution is a serious challenge — not only in our cities, but also in the surrounding natural environments.

It is not merely a local problem. Artificial light travels far into the atmosphere, brightening the night sky across vast distances.

As LED technology becomes more efficient and less expensive, global light levels are increasing by approximately 2–10% every year.

We must begin talking openly about light pollution and the related health risks for humans and nature caused by the loss of darkness.

Unlike other forms of pollution, light pollution can be reduced instantly — with the simple flip of a switch.

To create real change, we must rethink our relationship with light and darkness — and begin to recognize and promote the qualities of darkness.

DarkNature connects people with deep knowledge and insight into light and darkness.

Read our interviews with scientists, lighting designers, artists, and other experts.

We must learn to respect one another, the night, and our essential biological need for darkness.

We need to awaken our fellow citizens, municipalities, lawmakers, and decision-makers — and elevate the value of darkness.

Regulations should be defined according to the Five Principles of responsible outdoor lighting by DarkSky International.

Polluters must be held accountable and respectfully encouraged to reduce unnecessary lighting and protect the night.

In a truly responsible society, repeated violations that damage the night, nature, and biodiversity should have consequences.

Let’s inspire people to care about the dark.