The 2017 IES Street and Area Lighting Conference was a gathering of lighting professionals, manufacturers, and policymakers from around the world to discuss the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in outdoor lighting. The conference provided a forum for attendees to learn from industry leaders, share their experiences, and explore new ideas for creating more sustainable, safe, and livable cities and urban environments. Here are some key takeaways from the conference:
Smart lighting is the future
One of the major themes of the conference was the growing importance of smart lighting solutions for cities and municipalities. Smart lighting not only saves energy and reduces costs, but it also enhances safety and improves the quality of life for residents. Michael Siminovitch, Director of the California Lighting Technology Center, emphasized that smart lighting is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global smart lighting market is expected to reach $20.98 billion by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 21.5% from 2018 to 2023.
LED lighting is becoming more affordable
LED lighting is rapidly replacing traditional lighting technologies for outdoor applications, thanks to its energy efficiency, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. Jennifer Holland, Senior Lighting Specialist at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, noted that the cost of LED lighting has decreased by over 90% in the last decade, making it a more attractive option for businesses and municipalities looking to save on energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint. According to a report by the US Department of Energy, LED lighting accounted for 49% of all installed outdoor lighting in 2016, up from just 3% in 2010.
Light pollution is a growing concern
Light pollution, the excessive or misdirected artificial light at night, is a serious environmental problem that affects wildlife, human health, and astronomical observations. Christopher Kyba, Light Pollution Researcher at the German Research Centre for Geosciences, emphasized the need to raise awareness about this issue and take steps to minimize it. According to the International Dark-Sky Association, light pollution costs the US an estimated $3.3 billion annually in wasted energy and lost productivity.
Collaborative partnerships are essential
Creating successful and sustainable lighting solutions requires collaboration between lighting professionals, manufacturers, and community members. James Benya, Principal of Benya Burnett Consultancy, stressed the importance of engaging with stakeholders at every stage of the process to ensure that their needs are met. According to a survey by the American Planning Association, 95% of planners believe that involving the public in the planning process is essential for creating successful and sustainable communities.
Designing for safety is critical
Lighting plays a critical role in public safety. Well-designed lighting can reduce crime, improve pedestrian safety, and enhance the overall quality of life in communities. Maria Fyodorova, Lighting Designer at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, highlighted the importance of designing lighting solutions that prioritize safety. According to a report by the US Department of Justice, improved lighting can reduce crime by up to 20% in some areas.
In conclusion, the 2017 IES Street and Area Lighting Conference provided valuable insights into the latest trends and best practices in outdoor lighting. By leveraging the power of smart technologies, collaborating with stakeholders, and prioritizing safety and sustainability, lighting professionals, manufacturers, and policymakers can create more livable, efficient, and resilient communities for everyone.
