Biodiversité

Anthropogenic light is ubiquitous in areas where humans are present and is showing a progressive increase worldwide. This has far-reaching consequences for most species and their ecosystems. The effects of anthropogenic light on natural ecosystems are highly variable and complex. Many species suffer from adverse effects and often respond in a highly specific manner. Ostensibly surveyable effects such as attraction and deterrence become complicated because these can depend on the type of behavior and specific locations. Here, we considered how solutions and new technologies could reduce the adverse effects of anthropogenic light.

One of the perks of having a window seat in an airplane at night is looking out at the lights below. All that bright light underneath is actually a form of light pollution, or excessive artificial light. Like other forms of pollution, light pollution impacts both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. In fact, as of 2010, over 20 percent of Earth’s coastlines were lit up artificially at night. As the human footprint on the planet continues to increase, the impact of light pollution on ecosystems remains a concern. 

Lorsque le soleil se couche, les humains laissent la lumière allumée. Mais cette pollution lumineuse qui nous permet de vivre la nuit perturbe les écosystèmes marins, et complique les efforts de la recherche qui ne peuvent s'effectuer correctement sans source de lumière.

La pollution lumineuse en Arctique peut perturber les écosystèmes marins jusqu'à 200 mètres de profondeur, une entrave aux efforts de la recherche.