In an era when the world is becoming increasingly aware of the impacts of human activity on natural ecosystems, light pollution is finally getting the attention it deserves. DarkSky International, a leading organization working to combat light pollution, recently unveiled a new set of model outdoor lighting policies. These templates are designed to help municipalities implement lighting practices that benefit both the environment and human well-being.

One of the most remarkable benefits of these new policies? They can greatly improve conditions for birds.

Artificial lighting has been a growing issue for all birds, especially birds that migrate at night. Excessive outdoor lighting disorients birds, drawing them off their natural migration routes and into urban environments where they face many dangers. They may collide with buildings, or become exposed to predators and other hazards they would have otherwise avoided. For those nesting and foraging, bright lights can reduce foraging success and disrupt breeding cycles. 

American Bird Conservancy (ABC) worked closely with DarkSky International to ensure that the new lighting policies would prioritize the welfare of wild birds. Drawing on ABC's expertise in bird migration and behavior, the collaboration helped shape guidelines that address the unique needs of birds affected by light pollution. ABC provided key insights into the specific lighting practices that most benefit birds, especially during migration. This partnership helped ensure that the policies include targeted measures to reduce risks for birds while also promoting broader environmental benefits. 

The policy templates align with DarkSky International's Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting, which state that all outdoor lighting should have a clear purpose and be low-level, targeted only where needed, used only when needed, and warm-colored. Birds will benefit from the overall reduced lighting from these policies, as well as the nighttime hours lighting “curfew" that recommends limiting unnecessary and decorative lights at night, temperature requirements, and downshielding requirements that make lights less visible from above. 

The collaboration between DarkSky International and ABC demonstrates what can be achieved when organizations combine expertise in conservation and urban planning. Together, we have created a roadmap for lighting policies that benefit ecosystems and human well-being alike. As more municipalities and individuals adopt these practices, we move toward a future where birds can safely navigate the night sky — and where people, too, can once again enjoy the beauty of the stars above.

Making cities more bird-friendly doesn't stop with municipal policies. Individuals can also take simple actions to support migratory birds. Here are a few ways everyone can help:

• Install motion-sensor lights that only turn on when necessary.
• Use warmer-colored lights for outdoor fixtures, avoiding bright LEDs whenever possible.
• Close blinds and curtains at night to prevent indoor light from spilling outdoors, especially during migration seasons.
• Make windows at your home, office, or school safer for birds using one of our recommended collision deterrents.
• Support local policy changes that promote DarkSky and ABC-compliant lighting and bird-friendly glass codes.

About the Author

Kaitlyn is ABC's Glass Collisions Program Coordinator.