Growing up in Hilton Head, I have always been enchanted by the night sky. Observing the plentiful stars sparked my passion for space and inspired my imagination. However, at just fourteen years old, I am facing a troubling reality—I can hardly see the stars from my own backyard. I didn't think I could make any difference until now.

Light pollution in our town has increased significantly over the years, destroying the natural beauty of our night skies. To preserve our stars for current and future generations, it's crucial to set appropriate lighting limits on public and private properties across Hilton Head. My goal is to bring back the stars we've lost and to preserve the few we have.

I propose that all pathways, walkways, and landscape lights be limited to under 300 lumens per fixture. Security lighting should not exceed 2000 lumens per bulb, while stairway lighting needs to be restricted to 600 lumens. For public streets, residential roads must use bulbs that emit no more than 5,000 lumens per light. Minor roads should remain under 10,000 lumens, and our major roads and highways must not exceed 40,000 lumens. Billboards and signs should have a maximum light output of 5000 lumens. Furthermore, every light ought to be equipped with a full or at least a partial glare shield to reduce excess spill light, ensuring its illumination is focused rather than widespread and spilling into the sky.

Statistics reveal that light pollution not only obscures our view of the stars but also disrupts local wildlife, alters ecosystems, and affects human health by disturbing sleep patterns. Limiting lumens across various light fixtures will greatly reduce our light pollution levels, helping restore the sight of our night sky.

Join me in advocating for these practical and environmentally friendly changes to lighting standards across Hilton Head. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to protect our sky's wonder. Sign this petition to help bring back the stars to Hilton Head.