300
400
500
600
700 nm
RESPONSIBLE OUTDOOR LIGHTING
Eco-friendly light
The influence of blue light component
on insects and humans
Light wavelength visibility in:
Insects (nocturnal)
Humans
Infrared
Ultraviolet
Natural light sources such as the sun and the moon
influence the biological activity of plants and
microorganisms. They also affect the instincts
of humans and animals. Moonlight helps animals
navigate in the dark. This is particularly true for
the group of animals with the most different
species: insects. Other influencing factors include
changes between light and dark, the light incidence
direction and the rhythm of light in the form of the
duration of daily light use.
Artificial light – especially light with high blue light
content – has an attractive effect on animals,
especially insects and birds. It can severely disrupt
life’s natural rhythms. The consequences can be
far-reaching: Impairment of reproductive and
foraging activities and even the death of animals
in the vicinity of artificial light sources. Light should
not be a disruptive factor to the natural balance:
instead, it should minimise negative influences on
the ecosystem as a whole.
Our focus is on responsible outdoor lighting that
addresses the fundamental relevance of illumination
to ensure safety and create identity. On the one
hand, this illuminates our living spaces. On the
other hand, it prevents negative impacts on animal
habitats where possible, in natural spaces as well
as urban environments.
16
