See how much you could save on energy costs with our easy-to-use LED Energy Calculator.
Open Energy CalculatorWe design and manufacture an extensive range of luminaires for a diverse number of sectors and applications. Whatever the shape, purpose or style of your space, we have a lighting solution.
View all sectors & applicationsView our latest product, OCTO smart lighting and application sector brochures.
Download our BrochuresFind information regarding our product warranty, product data downloads and FAQs regarding lighting and technical terms. Here you will find support with training CPDs as well as useful lighting design and LED strip calculators.
View the Energy CalculatorOCTO delivers the complete smart lighting package to transform the efficiency and ambience of commercial and residential spaces.
Download the BrochureFind product warranty details, data downloads, and lighting FAQs. Access training CPDs plus handy lighting design, energy and LED strip calculators—all in one place.
View the Energy CalculatorTackling the Growing Issue of Light Pollution
Light pollution has become a pressing challenge in today’s world. It disrupts ecosystems and the natural behaviours of wildlife, affects human well-being, obstructs astronomical studies, and even contributes to climate change. This issue largely stems from outdoor lighting that is excessively bright, poorly shielded, or misdirected.
While turning off lights completely during nighttime might seem like a straightforward fix, modern societies rely heavily on outdoor illumination for safety and functionality. Therefore, the real solution lies in smarter design and installation practices that help limit unnecessary light emissions.
Choosing the Right Products
The first step for lighting professionals is selecting the right equipment. Installers should look for fittings certified with the Dark Sky Association’s Fixture Seal of Approval. This certification is only awarded to luminaires that are fully shielded and emit very low levels of blue light and glare, ensuring minimal disruption to the night environment.
If this certification isn’t an option, installers can instead choose durable luminaires featuring advanced optical technology and superior glare control. These design features help reduce upward light spill, thereby curbing light pollution. Incorporating a fixed mounting system is also recommended to ensure that the lighting direction aligns precisely with photometric test results.
Importance of Proper Installation
Installation quality plays just as vital a role as product choice. Installers should follow the five ‘Dark Sky Design’ principles to minimise environmental impact.
-
USEFUL – Every light should serve a defined purpose and offer a clear benefit; assess whether each luminaire is truly necessary.
-
TARGETED – Lighting should be confined to the required area only, avoiding unwanted spill.
-
LOW LEVEL – Illumination should be kept to the minimum brightness needed to achieve its function.
-
CONTROL – Use lighting controls to ensure lights operate only when required.
-
COLOUR – Select a colour temperature of 3000K or below to reduce glare and blue light output.
By focusing on both product specification and thoughtful installation, the negative effects of light pollution can be significantly reduced without compromising the benefits of outdoor lighting.