Samso – a dark sky island #2
About this good practice
analysed the street lightning in the central village of Tranebjerg (population:800) in order to assess whether the lighting should be replaced with more environmentally friendly light sources.
Based on the ELENA report the municipality has just decided to replace all mercury based light sources with LED lighting in the whole village.
Furthermore, the street lightning will be shut off in the period between 24 -06
This project is expanded and are now implemented on the whole island of Samsø, and all public street lighting are now shifted to LED and are turned off 6 hours during the night.
Expert opinion
The importance of the preservation of dark skies, as well as the reduction of light pollution due to its impact on biodiversity and ecosystems is not sufficiently recognized at local level. This practice is a positive step in this regard and is about saving energy by using proper lighting technology and addressing light pollution at the same time. Tested as a pilot action in a village, the approach was successfully adopted by other villages located on Samso island in Denmark. The practice can serve as an inspiration for other local authorities motivated not only to use more environmentally friendly technology for improving street lighting system but also to raise the awareness of the citizens about the increasing loss of natural darkness and the need to take action.
Resources needed
Evidence of success
Potential for learning or transfer
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Samsø Energy Academy