The Great Earth Day Lights Out!
As Earth Day approaches on April 22, a quiet revolution is unfolding — not in protest or policy, but in light. Or rather, in the absence of it.
Welcome to The Great Earth Day Lights Out, a growing movement where people, communities, and even cities commit to switching off non-essential lights for a night — not just to honor our planet, but to protect the skies, the creatures that live beneath them, and even ourselves.
Why does turning off lights matter? The answer lies in the night itself.
The Problem with Too Much Light
We often forget that darkness is natural. Light pollution — the excessive or misdirected artificial light — disrupts ecosystems, confuses wildlife, wastes energy, and contributes to climate change. Many animals rely on natural light cues for migration, feeding, and reproduction. When skies are flooded with artificial glow, birds veer off course, baby turtles head inland instead of to the sea, and nocturnal pollinators vanish from the night shift.
Here in Naramata, we’re lucky to be surrounded by nature. But even in small communities, unchecked lighting can have big impacts. It’s estimated that over 30% of outdoor lighting in North America is wasted — often shining upward or sideways instead of down where it's needed.
Lights Out = Big Wins
The beauty of Lights Out is how simple it is — and how far-reaching the effects can be:
Wildlife Relief: Nocturnal species get a break from the bright glare, helping them navigate, feed, and mate naturally.
Energy Savings: Every light you turn off saves electricity, cuts emissions, and reduces demand on the grid.
Climate Impact: The energy saved also means fewer fossil fuels burned. A single night might not save the world — but it sends a powerful message about conscious living.
Dark Sky Beauty: With fewer lights on, more stars come out. The Milky Way returns. And with it, a sense of wonder and connection.
Join Us, Naramata
This Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22nd, let’s make it count. Whether you switch off your porch light, dim your indoor lights, or organize a neighbourhood Lights Out Hour — your action matters.
Here are a few easy ways to take part:
Turn off non-essential indoor and outdoor lights from 8–10 PM
Use warm, dim lighting if needed, pointed downward
Go for a night walk and stargaze — you might even spot a planet or two
Share your participation with #EarthDayLightsOut and tag @naramataslow
Let’s show that small actions — when taken together — can spark big changes.
Happy Earth Day week from Naramata Slow. Let’s keep looking up — and keeping it dark.
Photo Credit: Wyatt Lennie, Naramata
