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Dark-sky certification assistance |
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Accreditation of sites for the quality and preservation of dark skies by a recognized organization like DarkSky International is a sign of prestige that can raise the profile of your community or a a nearby park or protected area. But the nomination process can be lengthy and difficult to navigate. Let us apply our years of experience managing these nominations to the benefit of your certification project. We can advise you on various aspects of preparing successful nominations to programs such as International Dark Sky Places up to and including overseeing the entire application process on your behalf.
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Outdoor lighting policy advice |
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Municipalities and other public corporations are increasingly interested in enacting policies regulating outdoor lighting for the benefit of protecting dark night skies or lowering their environmental impacts through reduced artificial light at night (ALAN) emissions. At the same time, private entities are similarly concerned with being good environmental stewards as reflected in company policies such as sustainability goals. We can help both governments at various jurisdictional levels and private enterprises write and implement effective, common-sense outdoor lighting policies that enhance safety, reduce electricity consumption, shrink carbon footprints and promote outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional at night. Find out how we can help your organization compose a new lighting policy or amend an existing policy, from concept to enactment.
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Lighting audits and planning |
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A big step toward pursuing dark skies by any organization is to consider the outdoor lighting on its own properties and physical facilities; 'walking the talk' requires understanding the status quo, finding the shortcomings in site lighting practices, and implementing lighting improvement plans. We can lead you through the process of conducting a site lighting audit, including collecting and analyzing field data, and planning lighting retrofits. Although we do not offer outdoor lighting design services, we can equip you with all of the information needed to pursue successful retrofit campaigns.
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Site characterization |
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The quality of the night sky over an area is widely regarded as a leading indicator of the overall nocturnal health of a region, as skyglow is often the most immediate manifestation of light pollution on the ground. Well-versed in the latest science of measuring and monitoring light pollution, we help clients determine the night sky quality of their sites as a benchmark to gauge the efficacy of outdoor lighting policies interventions or to support dark-sky certification efforts. We also advise clients on how to monitor night sky quality over time to better understand if and how conditions are changing.
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