I am very concerned about the effects of light pollution on the environment and would like to make the following points:

—  Diffused lights (opaque) are usually all right, both outside private houses and as street lights. They have some of the pleasant properties of moonlight. However, stark bulbs in prismatic globes completely spoil the environment. They produce sparkling lights in the eyes and wash out the dim light of the night skies.

—  Many street lights are inefficient. Apart from lighting road surfaces they scatter light into the eyes, and often up in the air causing light pollution.

—  When light is allowed to spread where it is not needed the lamps are inefficient and consume unnecessary energy, which we are supposed to be saving.

—  Car park and security lights often light more than the area needing to be illuminated.

—  There is a road safety factor when lights are allowed to cause dazzle. Driving towards poorly focussed lights can wash out the dim illumination of road surfaces putting cyclists and pedestrians at risk.

  In summary, I believe that efficiency, safety and the environment are all victims of not having appropriate legislation to cover light pollution and would urge to committee to consider the serious need of such legislation as a matter of urgency.

28 April 2003