The National Lighting Bureau (NLB) recently held a panel discussion on the effects of street lighting on the circadian rhythm of humans, plants, and other animals. Moderated by NLB Executive Director Randy Reid, the panelists included Dr. Ron Gibbons and Dr. Raj Bhagvathual, both of Virginia Tech.

In the video, the experts discuss the direct link between lighting and melatonin and how street lighting impacts sleep quality in animals and humans. Different solutions are needed for humans and animals, depending on the situation. On the topic of plants, while melatonin levels are not a concern, some need the darkness of night in order to produce crops and flowers. These individual situations are often all mingled in one environment, so the process of developing best street lighting practices can be challenging.

Additionally, the panel also discussed the topics of the light spectrum and other measures that can be taken to improve street lighting for animals and plants; how litigation taken by people because of intrusive lighting in residential areas; and what the future of street lighting looks like.

For more information on this panel discussion, read the original press release, or watch the full discussion below.