Lighting levels that are higher than necessary and light that shines when and where it’s not needed is wasteful. Wasting energy has huge economic and environmental consequences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In an average year in the U.S. alone, outdoor lighting uses about 120 terawatt-hours of energy, mostly to illuminate streets and parking lots. That\u2019s enough energy to meet New York City\u2019s total electricity needs for two years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
DarkSky estimates that least 30 percent of all outdoor lighting in the U.S. alone is wasted, mostly by lights that aren\u2019t shielded. 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\u2019d have to plant 875 million trees annually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Environmental responsibility requires energy efficiency and conservation:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Quality lighting design reduces energy use and therefore energy dependence. It also reduces carbon emissions, saves money, and allows us to enjoy the night sky. Watch a clip of the documentary The City Dark<\/a> to learn how lighting design can reduce light pollution and conserve energy:<\/p>\n\n\n\n