Darker Sky

The Darker Sky research group is committed to tackling light pollution in the North Sea Region. Light pollution, caused by excessive or misdirected artificial light, is an environmental issue with serious consequences for biodiversity, ecological connectivity, and human well-being. Our research addresses the urgent need for sustainable lighting solutions that balance safety and functionality with environmental conservation. This project is funded by Interreg for 60%, and includes project partners from universities, national parks, port authorities, and municipalities, supported by associated partners and external project management experts. It brings together 13 partner organisations from four North Sea Region countries: France, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany.

Focus on Biodiversity and Ecological Connectivity

The Darker Sky group emphasizes the protection of biodiversity and the restoration of ecological corridors by developing and implementing innovative light reduction solutions. We work with municipalities and ports in the North Sea Region to introduce environmentally friendly lighting techniques that reduce artificial light pollution and its negative effects on wildlife. Our demonstrator sites, located in France, the Netherlands, and Germany, serve as practical examples of these solutions, which can be replicated across the region.

Interdisciplinary and Transnational Approach

Darker Sky fosters interdisciplinary and cross-border collaboration among environmental scientists, urban planners, policymakers, and local communities. By promoting transnational knowledge exchange and lighthouse demonstrators, we aim to harmonize regional action plans that contribute to the creation of dark ecological corridors. These efforts align with the goals of the EU Zero Pollution Action Plan and the EU Biodiversity Strategy, providing a roadmap for sustainable policy uptake and ecological restoration.

Innovative Methods and Public Engagement

At the core of our research is the development of advanced methods for measuring and monitoring light pollution. By engaging citizens and local stakeholders, we co-design and implement these solutions, ensuring that they meet both technical requirements and environmental needs. Our research also extends to public awareness campaigns, highlighting the importance of darkness for ecological health and human well-being.

Contribution to Knowledge and Policy Development

The University of Groningen (RUG) plays a key role in the Darker Sky project through its expertise in astronomy, biology, and image processing. As part of our involvement, we lead the sky brightness monitoring framework, conduct light measurements at demonstrator sites, and contribute to the development of policy recommendations. Collaborating with regional partners, we support efforts to raise awareness about light pollution, contributing to a broader understanding of its ecological and social impacts.