In one of our previous articles „From Darkness to Light: Sustainable Solutions for Light Pollution Mitigation“ we have discussed basics of light pollution and it`s effects on human health, environmental and economical impact.
Why Darkness Matters
Darkness is more than just the absence of light but it is a natural condition that has shaped life on Earth for billions of years. Every organism, from microbes to humans, has evolved under predictable cycles of light and darkness. When artificial light disrupts this balance, the consequences can go far.
We as humans are biologically tuned to the alternation of day and night. Back in history darkness was seen as cultural and emotional space. The night sky has always served as a canvas for imagination, spirituality, and discovery. From ancient navigation to modern astronomy, access to clear darkness has shaped human knowledge and identity. At the same time, quiet dark landscapes provide psychological benefits from offering opportunities for reflection, stress reduction, and a sense of belonging to something larger than ourselves
Darkness holds very important ecological value as well. We can see that even countless species depend on darkness as a cue for survival. Not just continental animals but for aquatic systems, darkness regulates vertical migrations of plankton, tiny organisms that underpin global food webs. When skyglow penetrates water surfaces, it can disrupt these cycles, influencing entire ecosystems
What can we do about it?
Safeguarding natural darkness is not about rejecting light but about balancing its use. Communities can preserve the night through simple choices like limiting unnecessary lighting, and adopting warmer colors. Such practices allow us to honor the ecological, physiological, and cultural importance of darkness while still meeting human needs for safety and comfort.
Key takeaway
Preserving darkness is therefore a matter not only of ecology and health but also of cultural continuity and human flourishing. In essence, darkness matters because it sustains life, protects health, and enriches human culture. Without it, ecological systems weaken, human bodies suffer, and the cosmos itself becomes invisible.