Stop Disrupting Wildlife With Light Pollution

Target: Jim Macy, Director of the Nebraska Department of Energy and Environment

Goal: Reduce light pollution in rural Nebraska for the benefit of astronomy and natural ecosystems.

Rural Nebraska, once a haven for stargazers and astronomers, is increasingly marred by light pollution. This form of pollution not only hampers astronomical research and amateur stargazing but also disrupts local ecosystems. The time for action is now.

Light pollution affects more than just the night sky; it has a ripple effect on wildlife behavior, human health, and energy consumption. The nocturnal habitats of various species are disrupted, leading to imbalances in local ecosystems. Moreover, excessive artificial light can have adverse effects on human circadian rhythms.

The issue also has an educational dimension. Light pollution limits the visibility of celestial events, thereby affecting educational programs and research in astronomy. This is a loss not just for the scientific community but also for future generations who may miss out on the wonders of the universe.

Sign the petition below to call on the Nebraska Department of Energy and Environment to take immediate steps to mitigate light pollution in rural areas. Initiatives should include the implementation of “dark sky” zones, public awareness campaigns, and the use of energy-efficient, directional lighting.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Director Macy,

The increasing levels of light pollution in rural Nebraska are reaching a critical point. The degradation of night skies affects not just astronomers but also the natural world and the well-being of the communities. The evidence is clear: disrupted nocturnal habitats, increased energy waste, and hindered astronomical research.

We strongly urge you to act decisively. A comprehensive strategy is essential to address the multifaceted impact of light pollution. This should involve the creation of “dark sky” zones, public education about the importance of natural nightscapes, and the promotion of energy-efficient lighting solutions.

Inaction is not an option. The night sky is a shared resource, a part of the state’s natural and cultural heritage that we cannot afford to lose.

We implore you to take immediate action. Implement strategies that will not only reduce current levels of light pollution but also ensure the long-term preservation of the night skies for both scientific research and the natural world.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Geoff Livingston