Medway Dark Skies

The problems with light pollution

A starry sky is one of the most magical sights the countryside can offer. It also supports the Earths wildlife and for centuries has been essential, in one way shape or form, for human civilization.

Now, with ever expanding urbanisation and subsequent artificial light at night (ALAN), we are losing our Dark Skies. 2023 data indicates that only 1 in 20 people in the UK can now enjoy a starry sky, as the glow from ALAN creates too much disruption.

This light pollution not only limits our views of the sky and the wonder of the stars, it also disrupts our circadian rhythms and sleep cycles. ALAN is very bad for our health.

ALAN massively impacts on our wildlife’s essential natural patterns. Important night-time pollinators, such as moths, have declined by 40%, and ALAN is thought to have played a significant part of that decline. Buglife states that two-thirds of invertebrates are partially or wholly nocturnal, and even diurnal species can be impacted by the loss of a dark sky. This is resulting in a lack of pollination, as nocturnal pollinators visiting flowers has reduced by 62% in some areas. Some mammals also emerge too early from hibernation because of light pollution. Others will try to avoid the light altogether, which disrupts their natural activities such as mating and hunting.

We want, and need, to reclaim our Dark Skies.

Our 2026 Medway Dark Skies Project

CPRE Kent are delighted to be continuing a long history of Dark Skies campaigning via launching a Medway Dark Skies project.

Funded by Marshall Wace, we are focussing on the Medway area initially, the project will aim to influence planning and policy to safeguard our Dark Skies into the future.  We aim to work with developers, industry and businesses to raise awareness of night-time lighting and reverse some of the local light pollution now.

Raising awareness amongst residents will also be a big part of the project and we will be creating guides and interesting and informative fun activities for all ages.

We will be working in partnership with groups such as Medway Swale Estuary Partnership, Mid-Kent Astronomical Society, Kent Moth Group, Plantlife and Medway Council, to deliver a range of events which will illuminate the need for Dark Skies.  Events will include bat watching, moth identification and ‘reveal’ walks using 60W 365nm UV torches. We will also be measuring glow at various places using Unihedron SQM-L Sky Quality Meters.

Watch this space for upcoming downloadable content and check out the projects upcoming events on our Events Page, via our e-newsletter or via our social media platforms. If you would like to volunteer to assist in any of the events and activities, please email info@cprekent.org.uk