Monday, December 2, 2024

Will a SLO County Town Follow California’s Lead in Night Sky Protection? Here’s What’s Needed

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Residents of Cambria, a small town on California’s Central Coast, are striving for certification as an official dark-sky community, thanks to the efforts of the Dark Skies Initiative, which has been active for nine years. This initiative aims to preserve the area’s stunning night skies filled with stars, planets, and the Milky Way, while also adopting outdoor lighting ordinances to combat light pollution. Although there is local support for this effort, progress has been hampered by the county’s prioritization of other projects, with changes to the lighting code being deemed a lower-tier priority. Community members and officials recognize the challenges posed by existing businesses and tourist activities that contribute to light pollution. Experts suggest that reducing “wasted light” and modifying lighting practices can significantly aid the initiative, preserving the natural beauty of the night sky for both residents and future generations.

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