Why Light Pollution Threatens Life - Environmental and Ecological Impacts
Offered By: The Royal Institution via YouTube
Course Description
Overview
Explore the critical issue of light pollution and its far-reaching impacts on the environment, human well-being, and biodiversity in this comprehensive talk by Johan Eklöf, a Swedish bat scientist and writer. Delve into the effects of artificial lighting on various species, including bats, insects, sea turtles, and coral reefs, while examining the disruption of circadian rhythms and evolutionary processes. Learn about the history of lighting technology, its implications for safety and quality of life, and discover innovative solutions to mitigate light pollution. Gain insights into the importance of preserving natural darkness for ecological balance and human health, and understand how small changes in lighting practices can make a significant difference in protecting nocturnal ecosystems and restoring the beauty of dark night skies.
Syllabus
Introduction
What is light pollution
Longear bats
Dark churches
Lights on everything
Bats and street lights
Insects and lights
Lights on trees
Dark night sky
City lights
Light in the ocean
Sea turtles
Coral reefs
Circadian rhythms
Evolution of light
Insects
Pollinators
Trees
Birds
Light Revolution
Safety
Quality
Solutions
Lamps
Light technology
Takehome message
Northern Lights
Bat Swarm
Taught by
The Royal Institution
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