The Darkness Manifesto

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In the tradition of Why We Sleep and The Sixth Extinction, this urgent exploration highlights the hidden consequences of light pollution and advocates for the preservation of natural darkness for environmental and personal well-being. Satellite images reveal a planet illuminated by artificial light, raising the question of how much is too much. Over the past 150 years, our extended days have disrupted the natural day-night cycle, impacting all life forms, including humans. Swedish conservationist Johan Eklöf passionately argues for the appreciation of natural darkness and its unique benefits. He reflects on the beauty of the night sky, the swift movements of owls, and the bioluminescence of deep-sea creatures. Eklöf illustrates the alarming effects of light pollution: insects confused by streetlamps struggle to reproduce, birds are disoriented by artificial lights, and bats face starvation due to the absence of nocturnal insects. For humans, excessive light disrupts sleep patterns, affecting hormones and mental health. The prevalence of streetlamps and bright LEDs is transforming ecosystems, with scientists just beginning to grasp the long-term implications. This insightful work offers educational and hopeful solutions, urging us to embrace darkness for a healthier future for ourselves and the planet.