The Light Pollution Abatement (LPA) Committee coordinates the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada's efforts to raise awareness of and mitigate the detrimental effects of light pollution on human health, the environment, and the night sky.
Why do we do this?
We envision a society where artificial light at night is used wisely and in a way that minimizes its effects on the nocturnal environment, and hence the night sky, while contributing to safety and enjoyment.
How do we do this?
The Light Pollution Abatement Committee applies their expertise and experience to influence the general public, decision-makers, practitioners, and legislators to change their norms and behaviours and commit to more responsible lighting practices. We accomplish this by:
- Educating people about light pollution, its impacts, and responsible lighting
- Inspiring individuals, businesses, and governments to take steps to reduce the impact of their lighting
- Advocating for widespread responsible lighting practices
- Supporting individuals and entities who are committed to responsible lighting and reducing light pollution
- Adapting practices, policies, and standards to different needs and motivations
Mandate
The Light Pollution Committee fulfills its purpose by:
- Maintaining extensive resources on light pollution abatement initiatives in Canada on web-based media, including but not limited to the RASC website, Twitter, and Facebook;
- Acting as the RASC's liaison with other light pollution abatement groups around the world;
- Administering the RASC's Dark-Sky Site program to recognize and promote initiatives that reduce light pollution across Canada;
- Conducting research on light pollution's effects and mitigation methods; and
- Encouraging the sharing of strategies and techniques to effectively engage individuals, companies, and municipalities in adopting effective measures to reduce light pollution.
Members
Bob King (Chair)
Peter Brackett
Roland Dechesne
Dr. Victoria Kramkowski
Robyn Foret (Past President)
Lauren Knowles ex officio (Environmental Outreach Coordinator)
Phil Groff ex officio (Executive Director)
Charles Ennis ex officio (President)
Contact
To contact the Light Pollution Abatement Committee, please click the button below.
Contact us
LPA Discussion Group - Sharing Experiences and Best Practices
The RASC Light Pollution Abatement Committee supports a discussion group that brings together interested members of the RASC to share experiences, assistance, and ideas to help combat light pollution around the world. This discussion group can be accessed by members through the RASC's Secure Site.