A. For most of human history, the night sky was a familiar sight, filled with thousands of stars. However, in the modern world, the widespread use of artificial lighting has created a persistent glow over our towns and cities. This phenomenon, known as light pollution, is more than just an inconvenience for astronomers. It represents a significant environmental pollutant with harmful effects on wildlife, human health, and our ecosystem. In response, a growing movement is advocating for 'dark sky policies'—thoughtful approaches to lighting that aim to reduce light pollution and restore the natural darkness of the night. B. The animal kingdom is particularly vulnerable to the disruptive effects of artificial light at night (ALAN). Many species rely on natural cycles of light and dark to guide their behaviour, including migration, reproduction, and finding food. For example, newly hatched sea turtles have an instinct to move towards the brightest horizon, which for millennia has been the moon and starlight reflecting off the ocean. However, bright artificial lights from coastal hotels and streets can confuse them, causing them to move inland instead of towards the sea. This disorient…
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