Baby turtles follow streetlights, thinking it to be the moon, and end up crushed on the roads-- all because of unnecessary, artificial lighting. Animals and humans lose track of their circadian rhythms and leave themselves at greater risk for chronic diseases and sleep conditions-- because of unnecessary, artificial lighting.

For as long as I can remember, the night sky has been a source of wonder and inspiration in my life. The twinkling stars and the glowing moon have always sparked a passion for astronomy in me. More importantly, they represent an essential natural resource that is increasingly being threatened by human activity. In the Bay Area, unnecessary artificial lighting is not only robbing us of our ability to see the stars, but it has serious and harmful consequences for both the environment and wildlife.

Artificial lighting has numerous negative impacts: it disrupts wildlife, wastes national spending, and contributes to CO2 emissions, which is harmful to our planet. 

Light pollution is more than an annoyance; it is an environmental issue that demands our attention. In the Bay Area, excessive and unnecessary artificial lighting has grown rampant, coating the night sky and causing extensive damage. Not only does it affect the ecosystem, but it's also financially costly. According to Dark Sky International (a nonprofit), millions of tons of carbon dioxide are emitted each year due to energy wasted on artificial lighting, contributing significantly to climate change.

The solution to light pollution is feasible and actionable. We can implement innovative lighting technologies that are better shielded, direct light downwards where it's needed, and use sensors to ensure lights are only on when necessary. By adopting regulations that encourage the use of energy-efficient lighting and minimizing the impact on wildlife, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint.

I urge local governments in the Bay Area to prioritize reducing unnecessary artificial lighting. By doing so, we can protect our wildlife, save money, and reclaim the night sky for ourselves and future generations. If you share my passion for preserving our natural world and want to see meaningful environmental change, please sign this petition today and help us create a brighter future, one illuminated by stars, not streetlights.