Ruskin Hartley, CEO of Dark Sky International | Confronting the Growing Crisis of Light Pollution at Light Middle East 2024

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How is our night sky changing, and what does it mean for our future? Join us in a compelling conversation with Ruskin Hartley, CEO of Dark Sky International, as we unravel the alarming increase in light pollution—by an astonishing 10% each year—and the profound consequences for our starry nights. At the Light Middle East 2024 event in Dubai, Ruskin sheds light on this growing crisis, comparing it to the more familiar issues of air and water pollution, and emphasizing its adverse effects on human health, wildlife, and natural habitats.

Discover the fascinating history and mission of Dark Sky International, a non-profit organization originally founded to protect astronomers from harmful lighting. Ruskin shares how their focus has since broadened to include the wider impacts on ecosystems and energy use. Dispelling the myth that more light equals safety, we explore how proper lighting can actually enhance visibility and security, and discuss effective ways to communicate the importance of dark skies to the uninitiated.

Experience the majesty of Kitt Peak in Arizona through Ruskin's personal anecdotes, illustrating the awe-inspiring power of truly dark skies. Learn about initiatives like the "lighting police movement," which aims to educate and raise awareness through examples of both effective and poor lighting. As we wrap up, we express our heartfelt thanks to our listeners, urging you to share the podcast, leave reviews, and revisit previous episodes for more enlightening insights from leaders in the field. Don't miss this illuminating discussion on preserving our natural nightscapes for generations to come.

Quote of the Day

“The solution isn’t to ask people to turn off all the lights, it’s to ask people to use light correctly.  Shield it, point it down, dim it down.  Unfortunately most people haven’t ever had that pointed out to them.  When someone points out bad lighting, you will see it everywhere you go.”  — Ruskin Hartley

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