Artificial light at night (ALAN) is an increasingly important driver of global change. Lighting directly affects plants, but few studies have investigated indirect effects mediated by interacting organisms. Nocturnal Lepidoptera are globally important pollinators, and pollen transport by moths is disrupted by lighting.
Read MoreDiabetes, weight problems and even cancer! Terrifying new research into light pollution reveals why it’s time to see the LIGHT on the blight that harms us all
Growing number of experts suggest artificial lights contribute to modern illness. Phone screens, streetlamps and car lights may be linked to diabetes and cancer. Scientist Steven Lockley, from Boston, Massachusetts, says our biology suffers. He said: ‘We work and socialise when it’s dark but light after dusk is unnatural’.
Read MoreLED street lights can damage eyes and cause sleep problems, health officials warn
Public Health England warned this week that the street lights can disrupt sleep, resulting in a “permanent jet lag.” The blue colour of the lights can also result in damage to the retina.
Read MoreChief Medical Officer annual report 2017: health impacts of all pollution – what do we know?
Some LED installations, however, have LED chips visible, which can form a source of glare. An extreme example is daylight-running lights on cars. These are clearly visible to other road users and pedestrians.
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