Motion 046

Light pollution is an increasingly recognized threat to biodiversity, particularly for nocturnal species such as migratory birds, bats, and pollinating insects. It disrupts essential ecological processes, affects species orientation, and alters predator-prey dynamics, reducing the ecological resilience of critical habitats. Despite the recognition of light pollution as a global environmental issue through IUCN Resolution WCC-2020-Res-124, there remains a need to adopt a holistic, proactive strategy that prioritizes the restoration of natural darkness as a key component of biodiversity conservation.

The proposed motion addresses this gap by promoting the development and implementation of global and national strategies to restore natural darkness, protect sensitive habitats, and minimize light pollution impacts. The motion calls for the creation of exclusion zones, adoption of adaptive lighting standards, and cross-sector collaboration to enhance the protection of nocturnal species in migratory corridors and biodiversity hotspots.

Rationale for a Motion
A motion is necessary to elevate the issue to a priority level within the IUCN framework, facilitating stronger coordination among members, commissions, and stakeholders. While local initiatives and voluntary guidelines exist, they lack the cohesive, global framework needed to achieve broad and lasting impacts. A formal resolution will enable the IUCN to integrate the restoration of natural darkness into its conservation policies and frameworks, ensuring its alignment with global biodiversity targets and treaties.

Technical and Human Resources: Expertise in ecological monitoring, spatial planning, and lighting technologies. The IUCN Secretariat and relevant commissions can support capacity-building initiatives and foster knowledge-sharing platforms.
Partnerships and Coordination: Synergies with international conventions, such as the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), and partnerships with private sector actors to promote responsible lighting.
Strategic Justification
Restoring natural darkness contributes directly to global biodiversity conservation goals, including those outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly related to habitat connectivity and species recovery. Furthermore, the motion aligns with international efforts to address human health impacts linked to artificial light at night and supports climate change mitigation by promoting energy-efficient lighting solutions.

By adopting this motion, the IUCN can lead the way in establishing natural darkness as a vital conservation element, ensuring that future urban and rural development harmonizes with the ecological needs of nocturnal wildlife and human well-being.