LightingEurope | Business | Jul 10, 2025

LightingEurope Calls for a Harmonised EU Approach on Artificial Light at Night

LightingEurope published a position paper calling on EU policymakers to introduce a harmonised set of rules for regulating Artificial Light at Night (ALAN). ALAN is already subject to multiple, fragmented legislative requirements in different Countries in Europe.

"Artificial lighting at night plays a crucial role in our daily lives, and well-designed installations using quality products and control systems are fundamental to creating suitable outdoor environments. When designing any lighting application, the effect on the natural environment, including fauna and flora, must be considered, as well as the effects of obtrusive lighting, sky glow, and light nuisance. We need to consider the balance between human needs and environmental concerns in a consistent and effective set of rules. We cannot allow such a key topic to remain in a state of regulatory chaos.”, said Elena Scaroni, Secretary General.

On the one hand, legacy lighting systems in place across Europe are often inefficient and lack ecological considerations and are only being replaced very slowly. On the other hand, many EU Member States and regions - but not all - have adopted a wide variety of inconsistent rules to minimise the secondary effects of ALAN, creating a confused regulatory landscape in Europe. “LightingEurope urges the European Union to establish harmonised EU rules for ALAN. A unified approach will foster innovation, boost sustainability, and create high-quality jobs through strategic public procurement. Harmonised rules will also provide clarity to local authorities and accelerate the transition to energy efficient lighting infrastructure across Europe”, said Marion Ebel, Director of Corporate Affairs.

When creating the specifications for a new lighting system, sufficient consideration should be given to the purpose of the lighting system to be installed, so that:

All light should have a clear purpose.
Light is directed only to where it’s needed.
Light is not brighter than necessary.
Light is adapted to suit the task activities or turned off when not required.

Read our position paper here.

For more information, please contact Elena Scaroni, Secretary General of LightingEurope through elena.scaroni@lightingeurope.org

About LightingEurope
LightingEurope is the voice of the lighting industry, based in Brussels and representing 32 companies and national associations. Together these members account for over 1,000 European companies, a majority of which are small or medium-sized. They represent a total European workforce of over 80,000 people and an annual turnover exceeding 15 billion euro. LightingEurope is committed to promoting efficient lighting that benefits human comfort, safety and well-being, and the environment. LightingEurope advocates a positive business and regulatory environment to foster fair competition and growth for the European lighting industry. More information is available at www.lightingeurope.org.