Information Bulletin
11 October 2004
Leaflet Offers Advice on Light Pollution
Shetland Islands Council has responded to concerns about increased light pollution by publishing an advisory leaflet. The leaflet, entitled "What is Light Pollution?", is intended to raise awareness of what is seen to be the growing problem of intrusive light and to suggest ways in which everyone can reduce light pollution, at home or in the workplace.
Copies of the leaflet are available at all Council offices, electrical retailers, newsagents in Lerwick, rural shops and health centres throughout Shetland. It can also be viewed on the Council's website at: www.shetland.gov.uk or click here for the PDF Document - Light Pollution Leaflet
Councillor Iris Hawkins, Planning Spokesperson, said: "This issue has been mentioned more often over recent years as public and private lighting has become more widespread in Shetland. As the nights lengthen, it's obvious that the skies over the more built-up areas of Shetland aren't as dark as they used to be. We want to encourage a voluntary approach to reducing the problem, switching lights off when they really aren't needed, reducing obtrusive light by choosing fittings that direct light downwards, not sideways. That approach should produce some small energy savings, too."
Councillor Hawkins added that the Council is setting an example by replacing the older streetlights with modern lamps that throw more light downwards, so that less is wasted. "However, that's a long-term task. By taking a few simple steps, everyone can do their bit now."
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Further Information:
Bessie Barron, Planning Service, Grantfield, Lerwick
Telephone (01595) 744837.
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