January 16, 2025   

New Research Highlights Benefits of Red-White Lighting

2025 01 New Research Highlights Benefits of Red-White Lighting.jpg

Study reveals visitor comfort and ecological benefits in blended lighting systems

 

Recent research conducted at Grand Teton National Park has demonstrated that blended red-white outdoor lighting provides tangible benefits for both visitors and wildlife. This study, published in Scientific Reports, highlights the ecological and experiential advantages of transitioning to such lighting systems in natural areas.

The study was conducted by eleven researchers and collaborators from the National Park Service, Pennsylvania State University, Boise State University, and Signify, combining expertise in ecological conservation, human dimensions, and advanced lighting technologies.

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Researchers replaced 32 traditional high-pressure sodium and 4000K LED streetlights at Colter Bay Village with luminaires capable of switching between white and blended red-white LED lighting. The red-white blend utilized a mix of 623 nm narrowband LEDs and 3000K white LEDs to balance ecological benefits with color rendering.

Surveys were conducted with 573 park visitors to assess perceptions of lighting's impact on safety, visual comfort, and the environment. Participants were exposed to alternating red and white lighting conditions, and their responses were analyzed for patterns across various demographic and situational factors.

 

Key Findings: A Preference for Red-White Lighting
  • Visitor Comfort and Safety: Despite producing lower perceived brightness, red-white lighting scored higher in visual comfort and perceived safety. Visitors noted an enhanced ability to transition between lit and unlit areas, aligning with the spectrum's role in preserving night vision.
  • Ecological Benefits: Survey participants associated red lighting with reduced impacts on wildlife. Previous studies have shown that red spectrum lighting minimally disturbs nocturnal creatures like bats and insects compared to white or blue-rich lighting.
  • Night Sky Preservation: Red lighting improved visitors' experiences of stargazing, with 36% rating it as acceptable or highly acceptable compared to 20% under white light. This highlighting its suitability for preserving the natural night sky.
  • Demographic Neutrality: Age and gender did not significantly influence lighting preferences, suggesting broad appeal across diverse visitor profiles.

 

Implications for Outdoor Lighting

Blended red-white lighting aligns with the dual goals of enhancing visitor experience and minimizing ecological disruptions. The study reveals that this lighting is not only functional for human activities but also supportive of natural resource conservation. The findings may guide future lighting designs in protected areas and beyond.

Researchers noted high visitor support for management actions aimed at reducing ecological impacts, including adjusting lighting hues and implementing shielding to prevent light trespass. However, there was more limited support for reducing the overall number of lights, indicating the need for balanced solutions.

 

The impact of red-white lighting at Colter Bay may offer a model for integrating human and ecological needs in outdoor environments. These results could inspire similar implementations in communities near protected areas, fostering sustainable practices that benefit both people and wildlife.

 

 

 




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