New study identifies European waters most at risk from light pollution
Scientists have released a first-of-its-kind assessment identifying which coastal regions of Europe face the greatest risk from harmful artificial light at night.
Methodology for new assessment system
Researchers developed a new evaluation method because no defined criteria currently exist for artificial light at night in European waters. This system accounts for light emitted by coastal towns, the clarity of seawater, and how easily light penetrates the water column.
Specific seas facing highest exposure
The analysis indicates that enclosed regions bordered by land on several sides tend to have the highest risk of exposure. The Adriatic Sea, Baltic Sea, and western Mediterranean Sea were identified as the most affected European waters in this research.
Areas with lower pollution risk
More open areas of water show significantly less risk compared to enclosed bays or gulfs. Locations such as Macaronesia, the Barents Sea, and the Iceland Sea appear at the other end of the scale regarding harm.
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