Outdoor lighting specialist unveils Dark Sky versions of its flagship traditional luminaires to help combat light pollution
HODDESDON, UK, 20th May 2024 – Leading exterior lighting solutions provider DW Windsor has released DarkSky Approved versions of its most popular heritage luminaires, expanding its Dark Sky Lighting range to support its Light Responsibly® initiative.
The launch includes Dark Sky versions of their Windsor, Strand, and Ely lanterns and marks the first time traditional British heritage-style luminaires have been certified by the International Dark-Sky Association (DarkSky), a globally recognised authority on light pollution.
These new products demonstrate the British manufacturer’s commitment to tackling light pollution as part of its Light Responsibly initiative, launched in 2023 to promote responsible lighting practices.
The announcement comes at a time when more than 80% of the world’s population is impacted by some form of light pollution, which arises from the excessive or poor use of artificial outdoor light at night. If left unchecked, it’s estimated that global sky brightness will continue to rise by 9.6% per year.
The DarkSky Approved program offers impartial, third-party validation for lighting products. To be formally certified as DarkSky Approved, luminaires must demonstrate that they have an upward light output ratio (ULOR) of less than 0.5% or 50 lumens, have a maximum correlated colour temperature (CCT) of 3000K, and have the ability to dim down to 10% of their maximum light output.
By receiving this certification, the luminaires have shown that they minimise glare, combat light trespass and help protect the night sky.
“At DW Windsor, we are passionate about designing lighting for places, people and our planet,” said Alan Grant, Design & Development Director at DW Windsor. “With the launch of these new DarkSky Approved products, we’re underlining our commitment to eliminate light pollution, protect biodiversity and help preserve the night-time environment.”
Windsor, Strand and Ely join a growing list of DW Windsor luminaires that are now DarkSky Approved, including its award-winning Garda illuminated handrail, distinctive Pharola DS bollard, and innovative post-top luminaire, Daytona.