Light pollution: a landscape-scale issue requiring cross-realm consideration
Mariana Mayer-Pinto1, Theresa M Jones2, Stephen E Swearer3
1Centre for Marine Science and Innovation, Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
UCL Open. Environment
|May 25, 2023
Summary
Artificial light at night (ALAN) impacts ecosystems across terrestrial, marine, and freshwater realms. Current light pollution management must integrate cross-realm connectivity for ecosystem resilience.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Environmental Science
- Conservation Biology
Background:
- Ecosystems are interconnected through ecological, biogeochemical, and physical processes.
- Artificial light at night (ALAN) is a pervasive global stressor impacting diverse organisms and habitats across multiple environmental realms.
- Existing light pollution management strategies often overlook the critical connectivity between these realms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the cross-realm impacts of artificial light at night (ALAN).
- To propose a framework for integrated, cross-realm management of light pollution.
- To highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration for effective ALAN mitigation.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on ALAN impacts.
- Identification of mechanisms through which ALAN affects multiple realms.
- Case study analysis of cross-realm ALAN impacts.
- Development of a conceptual framework for cross-realm management.
Main Results:
- ALAN impacts cross multiple realms through species with multi-realm life cycles, altered cross-boundary species interactions, and effects on transitional ecosystems (e.g., mangroves, estuaries).
- Three primary pathways for ALAN cross-realm impacts were identified.
- A framework for cross-realm ALAN management was proposed, addressing current challenges and solutions.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of light pollution requires a holistic, cross-realm approach that acknowledges ecosystem interconnectedness.
- Strengthening professional networks across disciplines and realms is crucial for integrated ALAN management.
- Addressing ALAN's multi-realm impacts is essential for maintaining ecosystem resilience and biodiversity.
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