Protection of the quiet and nocturnal landscape

Abstract

Motives: We associate landscape primarily with the presence of vistas that change with the time of day, season and weather conditions. Landscape is shaped by light and darkness, sound and silence, all of which influence its perception. Quiet and nocturnal landscapes, however, remain on the margins of scientific interest in traditional landscape studies.Aim: The main aim of the study was to identify the younger generation’s awareness of the importance of nocturnal landscapes, light and noise pollution, and their preferences for protection against these threats. For this purpose, a diagnostic survey method was used. The results of the survey were referred to the 2015 TNS Poland report prepared for the Ministry of the Environment. In addition, the legal conditions of landscape protection in Poland were identified, with reference to protection against noise and light pollution. National and international experiences in the protection of quiet and nocturnal landscapes were also presented.Results: The survey demonstrated that public awareness of light pollution is increasing. A nocturnal (and quiet) landscape is of high value to the respondents. Light pollution causes, among other things, energy waste and landscape degradation (change of landscape characteristics), while noise negatively affects human and animal health. Therefore, the nocturnal (and quiet) landscape should be protected by law. Currently, there are no direct instruments for the protection of nocturnal landscapes in Poland. On the other hand, in the case of quiet landscapes, there are some instruments (e.g. quiet zones), but they have not been used yet. It is encouraging that public awareness of light and noise pollution is increasing. It is necessary to link landscape protection with the protection of the night sky and quiet zones, for example through advertising resolutions and the establishment of cultural parks. It is also important to educate the public about the risks involved.