LIGHT POLLUTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY IN CAMARATE, LISBON

Abstract

Light pollution results from poorly designed or poorly pointed outdoor lamps and projectors, emitting light beyond their target. Besides the economic and energetic aspects, light pollution interferes with the natural processes of fauna and flora, the quality of human life and the observation of the night sky. Considering the local problem of Camarate, Lisbon light pollution, an interdisciplinary project of Environmental Education was developed. Audits were carried out on external lighting equipment, and the effect of light pollution on the visibility of stars and the development of living beings was tested. The results point to a considerable level of light pollution (magnitude 3) in the area of Camarate Secondary School, predominantly from high-pressure sodium lamps and luminaires with only one partial protection. The tested living beings, bean plants and macro invertebrates of the soil, are affected by nocturnal artificial lighting, both in terms of growth and in living habits, respectively.