The Extinction of Darkness
TEMJ 20325 - Light pollution, Urban reforestation, Darkness, Earth Hour, Carrington event, Global lights-out event, National Night of Darkness, Environmental awareness, Impermanence
Greeting Fellow Earthmonks,
As I sit in my writing nook in the basement, peering out of the window, the scene before me unfolds with the gentle descent of snow. The sky wears a steely gray hue, and in the absence of wind, each snowflake drifts to the ground. A serene stillness blankets the air, amplifying the quiet beauty of the snow-covered ground and trees.
It's a moment of absolute tranquility, a stark contrast to the bustling urban landscapes that often drown in artificial light. Yet, as I reflect on this peaceful scene, I am compelled to explore a disquieting topic in this entry of the Earthmonk Journal—the ‘The Extinction of Darkness’ in our modern world and the implications of its gradual disappearance.
Light pollution refers to the excessive, misdirected, or obtrusive artificial light produced by human activities. It can have negative effects on the environment, wildlife, and human health by disrupting natural light patterns.
The Extinction of Darkness evokes a poignant image, suggesting the gradual disappearance of natural darkness in the face of relentless urbanization and artificial illumination.
This journal entry captures the essence of the growing concern around light pollution and the potential consequences of losing our connection with the natural cycles of night and day. It prompts contemplation on the impact of our choices on the disappearing landscapes of darkness and the urgent need to address this issue for the well-being of both humans and the planet.
Urban Nightscape
Throughout my extensive travels, both domestically and internationally, the allure of nighttime descents into major metropolitan airports has etched indelible memories in my mind. As the airplane descends from 30,000 feet, the urban grid unfolds below, transforming into a mesmerizing web of sparkling lights. Streets intersect and highways unfold like strings of diamonds and pearls against the dark canvas. The cityscape, bathed in an ethereal glow, paints a unique portrait of human civilization from above. The intricate patterns of urban development come alive as clusters of lights, creating a symphony of brilliance that captures the essence of bustling cities. These breathtaking views not only symbolize the interconnectedness of our world but also evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the ingenuity and vibrancy found in the heart of metropolitan areas. These nocturnal descents offer a poetic spectacle, a fusion of technology, human creativity, and the pulsating energy of urban life that remains eternally vivid in the journals of my travel memories.
As brilliant as the urban night-scape may be, a darker narrative unfolds – the theft of darkness from our urban landscapes. The relentless glow of the city, often referred to as "the city that never sleeps," disrupts the natural cycle of day and night, posing detrimental effects on both human health and the natural world. Light pollution, an inadvertent consequence of our ceaseless urban illumination, is profoundly destructive. It interferes with circadian rhythms, impacting sleep patterns and overall well-being. Moreover, it disrupts ecosystems, affecting wildlife behavior and the beauty of the night sky. Recognizing the value of darkness becomes imperative for fostering a healthier balance between urban vibrancy and the essential tranquility of the night.
Artificial Urban Illumination
Light pollution can significantly impact urban reforestation efforts. Excessive artificial light disrupts natural night cycles, affecting plant growth and the behavior of nocturnal pollinators. Urban trees, vital for carbon sequestration and enhancing biodiversity, may face stunted development due to altered light-dependent processes like photosynthesis and hormonal regulation. Moreover, light pollution can deter wildlife crucial for seed dispersal, hindering the natural regeneration of forests. Implementing proper outdoor lighting strategies in urban areas is essential to mitigate these effects, supporting successful reforestation initiatives and fostering healthier ecosystems within city environments.
In the context of urban biodiversity, light pollution is a significant concern, often ranking alongside issues such as air, water, and soil quality. Excessive artificial light disrupts ecosystems by affecting the behavior of nocturnal species, impacting their reproduction, foraging, and navigation. This disruption can lead to a decline in biodiversity as it affects various trophic levels. While air, water, and soil quality are crucial factors, light pollution's influence on wildlife behavior and ecological processes highlights its importance in maintaining a balanced and diverse urban ecosystem. Addressing light pollution is essential for comprehensive urban biodiversity conservation efforts.
“I’m unaware of any natural forests which have 24 hours of non-stop illumination”
Urban reforestation efforts must adopt a holistic approach beyond merely planting trees. While trees play a vital role in mitigating air pollution and enhancing urban greenery, a comprehensive strategy must address air, water, soil, and light pollution. Integrating air-purifying plants can enhance the effectiveness of reforestation in tackling air quality. Water-sensitive tree species contribute to soil health and water conservation. Additionally, managing artificial lighting to reduce light pollution is crucial for supporting nocturnal biodiversity. A multifaceted approach that considers the interconnectedness of air, water, soil, and light quality ensures urban reforestation efforts create resilient ecosystems that benefit both the environment and the well-being of urban inhabitants.
Unspoken Truth
Admittedly, the unspoken truth surfaces: human needs consistently overshadow those of the natural world. Despite recent investments, in the billions, to plant trees in urban areas across America, the paradox emerges when we maintain a constant nocturnal glow. We recognize that a forest at night is inherently dark, yet we perpetuate an unnatural, ceaselessly illuminated ecosystem in our urban landscapes and urban forests. The irony lies in the contradiction of our efforts – claiming to enhance nature while depriving it of the essential element of darkness. Acknowledging this incongruity becomes vital, prompting a reevaluation of our priorities to ensure that our initiatives genuinely align with the well-being of the natural world rather than perpetuating an artificial and detrimental facade.
Near Light as an Invasive Species
I have previously written about my analogy of the ever expanding ‘urban glacier’. To it I would like paint a vivid picture of ‘near light’ or light pollution acting as an invasive species, threatening the ‘far light’ of the cosmos. The ‘near light’ is crowding out the ‘far light’ and obscuring the night time sky for many on the planet. Near light, such as urban artificial illumination, can drown out the pure and precious ‘far light’ emanating from the cosmos and the night sky. This ‘near light’, often associated with light pollution, obscures celestial wonders, disrupts ecosystems, and affects human circadian rhythms. Darkness, in its natural form, holds immense importance in our world. It regulates wildlife behavior, supports ecosystems, and allows for the celestial beauty of the night sky. Preserving darkness is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, promoting human well-being, and fostering a deeper connection with the vastness of the cosmos that has inspired cultures throughout history.
The encroachment of urbanization and relentless artificial illumination indeed poses a challenge to finding and preserving darkness in our world. As cities grow, it becomes crucial to balance development with measures that protect natural darkness. Recognizing the value of darkness, both for our well-being and the health of the planet, is essential. Striking a harmonious balance between urban progress and the preservation of the night sky is a pressing consideration for a sustainable and interconnected future.
National Night of Darkness
Contemplating the electricity consumption of major cities like Los Angeles, New York City, and other cities for one night reveals the staggering impact of urban illumination. The idea of a ‘national night of darkness’, where major U.S. cities collectively turn off lights, or even a global night ‘lights-out’ event, holds symbolic power. Yet, the realization lingers that such a collective commitment is challenging, given the prevalent human prioritization of convenience, and safety over environmental impact. Nevertheless, advocating for heightened awareness about light pollution and its consequences remains crucial to foster a greater understanding of the delicate balance between human progress and the preservation of the natural world. The concept of a "National Night of Darkness" holds a poetic appeal, suggesting a deliberate pause in the ceaseless urban glow.
The electricity consumption for illuminating an entire city like Los Angeles (pick another if you like) for one night would be substantial and depends on various factors, including the type of lighting used, the intensity of illumination, and the specific areas covered. Los Angeles, being a large city, likely has a significant energy expenditure for its nightly illumination. How much energy could be saved if we turned off all the lights for one night or even one hour?
Imagine a night when major cities across the nation collectively turn off or dim their lights, allowing the natural darkness to reclaim its space. This symbolic gesture could serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving the night sky, reducing light pollution, and acknowledging the interconnectedness of human activities with the well-being of the natural world. While it might face practical challenges, the idea sparks contemplation on our relationship with light and nature, encouraging a broader conversation about sustainability and the environmental impact of our urban lifestyles.
Choosing a symbolic date for a National Night of Darkness could add depth to the initiative. Consideration might be given to the Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, holds symbolism in various cultures and could signify a collective return to appreciating the natural cycles of darkness and light. Ultimately, the chosen date should resonate with people, evoke a sense of unity, and emphasize the importance of reconnecting with the natural world by temporarily dimming the urban glow.
Global Lights Out Event
Envisioning a "Global Lights-Out Event" offers a compelling idea to unite people worldwide in a shared commitment to darkness and environmental awareness. This synchronized act of turning off nighttime lights globally could serve as a collective acknowledgment of the impact of light pollution on the planet. While implementing such an event on a global scale poses logistical challenges, the symbolism behind it holds the potential to spark conversations about our responsibility to preserve the night sky, reduce energy consumption, and foster a greater appreciation for the natural rhythms of day and night. Initiatives like this could contribute to a global consciousness about the importance of balancing human progress with environmental stewardship.
Earth Hour
Earth Hour is an annual event where individuals, communities, and businesses around the world turn off non-essential lights for one hour. This symbolic gesture aims to raise awareness about environmental issues, particularly climate change and energy consumption. Earth Hour usually takes place on the last Saturday of March at 8:30 p.m. local time. Participants join the global movement by switching off lights for the designated hour, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and encouraging a collective commitment to protecting the planet. It serves as a reminder that small actions, when multiplied globally, can contribute to significant positive changes for the environment.
Indeed, Earth Hour serves as a small but impactful annual commitment. However, the mention of a Carrington event introduces a different perspective. A Carrington event refers to a powerful solar storm that could disrupt electrical and communication systems on Earth. While the likelihood is low, the potential impact underscores the importance of being mindful of our reliance on technology and the benefits of occasional darkness. Whether through symbolic gestures like Earth Hour or a newfound appreciation stemming from external factors, recognizing the value of reducing light pollution becomes increasingly crucial for a resilient and balanced relationship with our environment.
Impermanence
My reflections here touch on the transient nature of human contributions in the vast timeline of existence. Indeed, nature has a way of persisting and evolving, while our words and actions may fade over time. It's a humbling realization that emphasizes the impermanence of our individual endeavors in the grand timescale of the natural world. Yet, the impact we make on the present can ripple through time, influencing the course of our shared history. While these specific words may fade, the essence of our collective choices and their consequences endures in the ongoing narrative of humanity and the planet we call home.
Trails End
Thank you for getting this far down the trail and for discovering the unknown with me. As the trail concludes, the invitation to subscribe to The Earthmonk Journal resonates, extending an opportunity to further explore the marvels of the natural world here with me.
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