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Light pollution falling amid soaring energy prices, star survey finds
(The Guardian, 17 May 2022) Reasons behind drop include people being more conscious of energy use during cost of living crisis, says CPRE.
Light pollution has decreased as a result of fears over soaring energy costs, a survey by the countryside charity CPRE has suggested.
Stargazers have been enjoying the best view of the night sky since 2011, as light pollution sharply dropped during the pandemic lockdowns and the levels continue to fall despite restrictions having been lifted.
Reasons light pollution has fallen, according to the charity, include households being more conscious about wasting energy due to high prices, and councils reducing street lighting. A continued trend of home workinghas also caused a reduction in light pollution from offices.
In February and March this year, 2,500 people took part in the star count survey, in which they were asked to report the number of stars they could see in the Orion constellation. Light pollution, which the charity tracks by recording where people are able to see 10 or fewer stars with the naked eye, has continued to fall.
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The Guardian, 17 May 2022: Light pollution falling amid soaring energy prices, star survey finds
