Chile Announces New National Lighting Standard to Protect Astronomy and Environment

The Chilean government has announced a new National Lighting Standard, set to take effect later this year, aimed at protecting astronomy, biodiversity, and human health. The regulation expands restrictions on light luminosity, color, and hours, particularly in the Atacama Desert region, home to 70% of the world's astronomical infrastructure by 2030.

The Atacama Desert has been facing increasing light pollution that threatens astronomical observations. The new nationwide regulation, informed by a technical advisory committee including astronomers and other scientists, aims to darken the night skies. It builds upon a previous rule that only protected certain key astronomical sites.

Unlike the prior regulation, the new standard recognizes that astronomy is not the sole concern. It also focuses on protecting biodiversity and human health from the negative effects of light pollution. The goal is to use specific lighting to reduce these impacts, rather than completely blacking out major cities like La Serena and Santiago.

Why this matters: Chile's new lighting regulation has far-reaching implications for both the scientific community and the environment. By taking steps to preserve the dark skies over the Atacama Desert, Chile is safeguarding its position as a global hub for astronomy and demonstrating leadership in addressing light pollution's harmful effects on wildlife and human well-being.

Environment Minister Maisa Rojas emphasized the significance of the new standard: "The National Lighting Standard is a fundamental tool to protect the skies of northern Chile, which are key to the development of astronomy, tourism, and the conservation of nature." The regulation is the result of extensive collaboration between government agencies, astronomers, lighting experts, and environmental advocates.

Key Takeaways

• Chile introduces new lighting standard to protect astronomy, biodiversity, health.
• Regulation expands restrictions on light in Atacama Desert, home to 70% of world's astronomical infrastructure.
• New standard recognizes astronomy is not the sole concern, also focuses on biodiversity and human health.
• Regulation aims to use specific lighting to reduce impacts, rather than completely blacking out cities.
• Chile's new lighting regulation demonstrates leadership in addressing light pollution's harmful effects.