Floodlighting 'ruins' Gozo beach

The Light Pollution Awareness Group has again called on the authorities to introduce controls over exterior lighting, with the aim of increasing safety and security, protecting the night-sky environment and reducing light pollution.

LPAG highlighted particularly the case of Hondoq ir-Rummien beach in south-east Gozo, which is being ruined after the installation of "carelessly installed" powerful floodlighting.

The Gozo and Comino Local Plan, to be approved by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority in the coming months, aims to control light pollution by imposing the use of full cut-off fixtures in certain areas of specific natural importance.

Moreover, LPAG said it would like to see the introduction of full cut-off street lighting for all new installations by Enemalta and local councils, as was done in the majority of EU countries.

"Exterior lighting should be sensitive to the place where it is installed. Moreover, outdoor light fixtures should direct light only to where the light is required. This will result in energy savings," the organisation said.

Other benefits include improved night sky visibility, reduced glare, improved safety and security due to better night-time visibility and a more attractive environment.