As we flew back from Denver to Columbia, Missouri, this evening, the skies were clear and the lights of cities and towns glowed from the darkness below. A magnificent sight, one could not help but admire the human ingenuity that made such a spectacle possible.
Yet, in this era of global warming, I could not help but wonder how much of that lighting was necessary. While we attempt to combat climate change with cleaner forms of energy, mass transit and other measures, we will not be successful unless we significantly reduce our energy consumption; more efficient engines, better insulation and low-energy lighting will help but lowering thermostats (in winter) and turning off non-essential lights will also be part of the solution.
The city lights were indeed beautiful from 30,000 feet but darker landscapes will be more inspiring in the long run. Natural ecosystems do not depend on artificial illumination and it is best that we aspire to limit our dependence as well. Don't forget, Daylight Savings Time begins tonight!
Yet, in this era of global warming, I could not help but wonder how much of that lighting was necessary. While we attempt to combat climate change with cleaner forms of energy, mass transit and other measures, we will not be successful unless we significantly reduce our energy consumption; more efficient engines, better insulation and low-energy lighting will help but lowering thermostats (in winter) and turning off non-essential lights will also be part of the solution.
The city lights were indeed beautiful from 30,000 feet but darker landscapes will be more inspiring in the long run. Natural ecosystems do not depend on artificial illumination and it is best that we aspire to limit our dependence as well. Don't forget, Daylight Savings Time begins tonight!
