How to tackle harmful light pollution, including LEDs. Ministry of Economic Development and Technology has no plans for action this year
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The Commissioner for Human Rights, Marcin Wiącek, drew attention to the negative consequences of excessive lighting, including potential risks to human health and the environment. In his letter to the Minister of Development and Technology, the CHR stressed the need for legislative measures to reduce light pollution and to ensure the safety of residents by regulating outdoor lighting.
Although the problem of excessive lighting is increasingly recognised by the public, outdoor lighting remains unregulated, making it difficult to effectively address the negative effects of light pollution. In the absence of comprehensive regulation, the CHR is calling for action to protect the health and well-being of citizens by introducing legislation to regulate outdoor lighting, particularly LED lighting. Its position is based on scientific data and expert advice showing the negative impact of excessive lighting on human health and the environment.
In its response to the Commissioner for Human Rights, the Minister indicated that these issues are not currently addressed in the planned legislative changes. The Ministry has signalled the start of a review of past activities, but no decisions have yet been made on future plans. Should the initiatives continue, the Ministry has committed itself to carrying out analyses and consultations in order to find optimal solutions, including safety aspects.
On 29 February, the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights hosted an interdisciplinary seminar entitled "The dark side of light - on light pollution and its impact on our lives". Speakers from various fields discussed the negative effects of excessive lighting on the health of humans, animals and plants, and ways to reduce this phenomenon.
