Dear Editor:
Over the past five years, I have noticed an increasing number of new construction projects or renovations that have included the installation of a multitude of exterior lights that can number in the dozens. These high-intensity unshielded lights usually flood at the owner’s house and landscaping (and their neighbours’ houses).
On my street in a sleepy little corner of West Vancouver, I am completely surrounded by houses where the exterior lights are left on every night, seven nights a week, from dusk until well after midnight. In some cases, the lights are left on the entire night. Ironically, these people are never out there marvelling over what a wonderful sight it is.
Five years ago, I was able to sit out on my deck in the evening and stargaze while bats flew around eating mosquitoes. The neighbours at the time had no unnecessary lights on.
We didn’t even have a streetlight.
Now I cannot see the night sky because my neighbour’s excessively bright lights that resemble aircraft landing lights blind me.
I miss the days when there was just a dim porch light left on only if the people were out or expecting company.
It seems that the people who do not want lights from their neighbours shining into their eyes and windows, have no rights to enjoy the darkness.
The International Dark Skies Association website has a wealth of information on research revealing that light pollution is a waste of energy resources and harmful to the environment, wildlife and to people’s health, safety and sense of wellbeing.
I propose the adoption of a bylaw limiting exterior lighting thereby protecting the environment, wildlife, health and the rights of people who want no light shining on their homes at night.
Jonathan Moore
West Vancouver
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