Here is your opportunity to either e-mail or write your local council, using this form letter, to express your concerns re light pollution. Please do something to help yourselves by assisting SOLIS. For further assistance e-mail me:
solissydney@telstra.com Regards Ken
General Manager
Name and address of council
Subject: LIGHT POLLUTION
Since 1998 Sydney Outdoor Lighting Improvement Society Inc. (SOLIS) have been working to save the night sky by promoting better outdoor lighting. Sky glow is caused by unused outdoor up-lighting. This light is scattered in the atmosphere by particles and aerosols causing the air above urban areas to glow. The end result is that we are unable to see the 2.500 stars that would normally be seen under dark skies. Astronomers at Siding Spring Observatory near Coonabarabran NSW are affected in their research by sky glow from Sydney and suburbs. Reducing light pollution actually saves us money in the long term and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Obtrusive outdoor lighting is the cause of other environmental concerns, for instance:
Safety Hazard, Health hazard, Public Nuisance and Energy Waste. E:
solissydney@telstra.com W: www.solis.org.au
Dear Sir.
I seek Council's assistance in an important matter. As an amateur astronomer my concern is my
neighbour's light in number xx xxStreet. The light is illuminating my land preventing me enjoying my
right to enjoy the view of the night sky. Such uncontrolled and wasteful lighting does not comply with the
Australian Standard AS 4282 “Control of the obtrusive effects of outdoor lighting”.
Local governmens play an important role in controlling the obtrusive effects of outdoor lighting
through the development process, and in resolving neighbourhood disputes involving residents who
experience discomfort or annoyance from nearby outdoor lighting installations.
On June 16, 2009 the American Medical Association (AMA) voted unanimously to support efforts to
control light pollution because of the public health implication.
http://www.skyandtelescope.com/news/48814012.html
I urge Council to include light pollution in their Development Control Plan.
Looking forward to your considered response
Name
Address
phone