It’s obvious that light pollution is a bummer for stargazers. But light pollution also wastes energy, disrupts wildlife and ecosystems, can harm our health and can negatively affect our vision and safety at night.

The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) works to protect night skies in over 50 countries around the world. They have designated over 130 International Dark Sky Places, have supported over 23 dark sky communities, have chapters in 18 countries, and have certified over 1000 dark sky friendly lighting fixtures.

Despite the progress the IDA has made, light pollution continues to spread. According to their website, ‘eight out of ten people live under a light-polluted night sky, at least three billion dollars is wasted on outdoor lighting each year in the U.S., and virtually every species studied has been harmed by light pollution.'

The work of the IDA continues in many forms, including public education, changing policies, grassroots actions and research. Go to their website to see how to learn more and take action. Here are some examples of what you can do:

• Check out their video “Losing the Dark”
• Learn to make your home lighting dark-sky friendly
• Find materials for students
• Learn about doing dark-sky outreach in your community
• Become a citizen scientist
• Advocate for a lighting ordinance where you live
• Find an International Dark Sky Park to visit