What’s ‘dark sky nation’ and why does New Zealand want to become one?

New Zealand has set itself the goal of becoming the largest "dark sky nation" in the world. The country has a long tradition of stars observation and astrotourism because of its clear sky and its low levels of light pollution.

In recent years, we have been more and more concerned with the effects of light pollution on the environment and human health, as well as the loss of the night sky as a cultural and spiritual resource.

To respond to these concerns, the New Zealand government has taken a number of measures to promote tourism from the dark sky and protect its night sky.

In fact, New Zealand aims to become a nation of dark sky certified by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDSA), an unprecedented objective for a country the size of New Zealand.

This includes the creation of the International International Star Sky Aoraki Mackenzie in 2012, which is the largest reserve of the dark sky in the world, as well as the creation of lighting guidelines for the dark sky to promote responsible lighting practices.

In addition, the government has announced its intention to update its lighting standards and regulations in order to reduce light pollution, as well as to promote the development of infrastructure and tourist activities in the dark sky.

Becoming the largest "dark sky nation" in the world could have important economic advantages for New Zealand because astrotourism is a growing industry that attracts visitors from all over the world.

This could also help protect the country's unique natural and cultural heritage, as well as to raise awareness of the importance of preserving the night sky for future generations.

What’s ‘dark sky nation?

A 'dark sky nation' is a country that has taken steps to protect and preserve its night skies by reducing light pollution and promoting responsible lighting practices.

This typically involves implementing lighting standards and regulations to minimize the impact of artificial light on the environment and human health, as well as promoting dark sky tourism and education.

The term "dark sky nation" is relatively new and has emerged in response to increasing concerns concerning the impacts of light pollution on the environment, human health and cultural heritage.

Light pollution refers to the excessive and poorly directed use of artificial light, which can interfere with natural processes, disturb ecosystems and have a negative impact on human health and well-being.

Why does New Zealand want to become one?

New Zealand wants to become a "nation of the dark sky" to protect and preserve its night sky, which is an important natural and cultural resource.

The country has a long tradition of stars observation and astrotourism because of its clear sky and its low levels of light pollution. However, in recent years, we have been more and more concerned with the effects of light pollution on the environment, human health and cultural heritage.

By becoming a "nation of the dark sky", New Zealand aims to reduce light pollution and promote responsible lighting practices to protect its night sky.

This also includes the implementation of lighting standards and regulations to minimize the impact of artificial light on the environment and human health, as well as the promotion of tourism and education in the dark sky.

Benefits of dark sky nation

Becoming a "nation of the dark sky" could have several advantages for New Zealand.

First, this could help protect the country's unique natural and cultural heritage, including its native Maori culture, which has a close link with the stars and the night sky.

Second, he could promote sustainable tourism by attracting visitors interested in stars observation and astrotourism.

Light pollution can have negative impacts on the environment, such as the disturbance of ecosystems and wildlife behaviour. By reducing light pollution, countries can help preserve the environment and promote sustainability.

Finally, this could raise awareness of the importance of preserving the night sky as a resource for human well-being and environmental sustainability.

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