Light Pollution: What it is and Why it Matters

This free program gives an overview of the adverse effects of light pollution on people, animals and plants, together with a review of Connecticut laws and regulations and best practices individuals can use to reduce light pollution.  

We are planning to hold this program in-person but will switch to Zoom if circumstances warrant. If that is the case, a link will be sent out prior to the program.

Dark sky advocate Leo Smith is the International Dark Skies (IDS) Northeast Regional Director and Chair of the Connecticut Chapter. A long time dark sky advocate, Leo is well-versed in public policy and lighting regulations.  He first got involved in the dark sky movement in 1999, when the 50-acre turf farm behind his family’s rural Connecticut home was sold to a developer. When he learned that the field was about to be divided into lots for high-end homes, Smith worried about the potential glare from the lighting of these new homes. He approached the developer with his concerns and they ultimately worked together to design lighting fixtures that would shield the glare. In the course of his research, Smith discovered the International Dark-Sky Association and joined the organization’s network of dark sky advocates.

In 2001, Smith worked to help pass legislation in Connecticut to require shielding for street lights. He also served on the Model Lighting Ordinance Task Force, a joint project between IDA and the Illuminating Engineering Society. Over a seven-year period, the task force developed national recommended practices for outdoor lighting. In 2006, he became the Northeast Regional Director for IDA, where he continues to build and leverage protection for dark skies through lighting policy.

This program is funded by the Friends of the Cheshire Public Library and co-sponsored by the library and the Coalition for Sustainable Cheshire.

To register, follow this link: https://cheshirelibrary.libcal.com/event/8173548