Why artificial light at night can be harmful to our health, and what we can do to protect ourselves
Artificial light has many advantages. It helps us find our way, makes many people feel safer, and is sometimes simply beautiful. For animals and plants, however, it’s a problem, because natural darkness at night is essential to nature. We humans don’t mind artificial light—do we? The fact that we’re making the night brighter and brighter bothers many people, especially when the light intrudes uninvited into private spaces. If the bedroom is affected, this unwanted brightness can certainly disrupt sleep and harm our health. Depression, obesity, and even breast cancer have been shown to be more common in brightly lit areas.
Biologist Dr. Annette Krop-Benesch explains why artificial light at night can harm our health and what options are available to protect ourselves. She has been researching this topic for more than 10 years and collaborates with universities, lighting designers, lighting manufacturers, local governments, and private individuals.
The lecture at the Karower Meiler Nature Park Center will take place on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. Admission is €5 (free for children 14 and under).
