LIFE Natura@Night Project
This project is one of the LIFE projects in which the Regional Directorate for Maritime Policy (DRPM) participates and is a beneficiary partner. The main objective of the project is to reduce light pollution in protected areas in the Macaronesia region (the archipelagos of the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands) and mitigate its impact on species protected at the European Union level. Seabirds will be used as “flagship” species and indicators of the impact of light pollution - one of the priority threats to this group in Macaronesia.
Specific objectives:
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Study and assess the impacts of light pollution on seabirds, moths, and bats;
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Map and monitor artificial light in Natura 2000 areas using integrated and innovative methodologies;
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Reduce and monitor artificial light in coastal areas, ports, and fishing vessels by implementing pilot changes and defining Municipal Public Lighting Plans, actively involving stakeholders in awareness and training campaigns;
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Develop seabird rescue campaigns with the support of volunteers;
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Set up a working group to promote the establishment of legislation on light pollution at European, national, regional, and municipal levels;
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Create a network of private entities that implement good outdoor lighting practices in their facilities;
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Provide information and promote increased environmental awareness through dedicated actions in the three archipelagos;
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Promote good practices in coastal areas and on fishing vessels with the involvement of stakeholders.The LIFE Natura@night project (LIFE20 NAT/PT/001098) is co-financed by the European Commission's LIFE Program. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the European Union.
