Councils have been urged to take action to limit the impact of artificial light from streets and buildings by the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE).
The CPRE has published a Cosmic Census, in partnership with the British Astronomical Association, showing just 2% of participants were able to enjoy a truly dark sky full of stars due to light pollution.
It also revealed that more than half of those taking part (57%) failed to see more than ten stars so were ‘severely’ impacted by light pollution.
Emma Marrington, dark skies campaigner at CPRE, said: ‘Without intervention, our night sky will continue to be lost under a veil of artificial light, to the detriment of our own health, and the health of the natural world.
She added: ‘By using well-designed lighting only when and where it is needed, investing in street light dimming schemes and considering part-night lighting – which should of course be done in consultation with the local community and police – councils have a fantastic opportunity to limit the damage caused by light pollution, reduce carbon emissions and save money.’
The CPRE also wants councils to develop policies to control lighting in local plans and ensuring that new development does not increase local light pollution.
