Problems Associated with Implementation of Light Pollution Prevention Act in Korea and Proposed Solutions

Abstract

In order to identify administrative and institutional problems in implementing present Light Pollution Prevention Act in Korea, and to propose improvement measures, we examined current civil complaint status, reviewed press releases, and analyzed the contents of numerous expert meetings and various international standards. Following improvement measures are hereby proposed.BR The current ex-post regulation enforcement system should be changed, in part, to a preliminary review system. Such preliminary review system will not only help prevent light pollution prior to actual installation of lighting, but also will have positive effects in regulating their presentation, aesthetics, energy waste, and installation/maintenance costs.BR Guidelines on designation and operation of lighting environmental management zones should be available to ensure consistency in zone designation process.BR True light pollution prevention effect may be realized only if the scope of subject lightings applicable to law is progressively expanded, to include lightings that had been the main causes of recent increase in civil complaints - such as those at gas stations, sports facilities, and religious facilities.BR Light pollution management standards on crops and livestock should be additionally available, while institutions responsible for measurements should be designated officially to ensure accurate and objective assessment of light pollution levels.