Starry skies are a vanishing treasure because light pollution is washing away our view of the cosmos. It not only threatens astronomy but also disrupts wildlife and affects human health. The glows over cities and towns- seen clearly from space- are testament to the billions of dollars spent in wasted energy lighting up the sky.

What is Light Pollution?

It is adding light to brighten the outdoors. It is a fully human made form of pollution. Light pollution disrupts wildlife, impacts human health, wastes money and energy, and contributes to climate change.
In an average year in the US alone, outdoor lighting uses about 120 terawatt-hours of energy, mostly to illuminate streets and parking lots. That’s enough energy to meet New York City’s electricity needs for two years!

Dark Sky International estimates that 30% of outdoor lighting in the US alone is wasted, mostly by lights that aren’t shielded correctly. That adds up to $3.3 billion and the release of 21 million tons of carbon dioxide per year. To offset all that carbon dioxide, we need to plant 875 million trees annually.

How can you help?

• Join us by participating in Dark Sky Week April 21-28,2025.
• Watch the video below and clip on the various links included in the publication to learn more.
• Turn off all unnecessary lighting inside and outside.
• Make sure outdoor lights are properly shielded and direct light down instead of up into the sky.
• Close window blinds, shades, and curtains at night to keep light inside.
• Go outside and enjoy the stars.