LED streetlights are good for the environment. LED streetlights consume three times less energy than traditional high-intensity discharge lights (HID), and last three to four times as long. They also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and maintainability costs. Because they emit direct illumination, LED lights contribute less to light theft. Many cities are switching from HID streetlights to LED because of their many great features. However, many cities fail to realize that LED streetlights can emit different colors of light and should not be used in public outdoor spaces.
International Dark-Sky Association, a group whose goal is to protect the night skies, recommends LED street lights with a CCT below 3000K. This will create a warm, white glow that is safer and more comfortable for wildlife and people. The CCT of daylight is around 6500K which makes it appear pretty blue. People can be affected by this type of light entering their homes at night through their windows. It can also suppress melatonin and disrupt the circadian rhythm. It's not just a good way to fall asleep, it also has antioxidant properties and boosts the immune system. There have been studies showing that it can even aid in IBS as well as migraine and cancer prevention.Throughout the day, light changes from a warm white color at dawn to natural white then to a cool white in the afternoon, back to natural white, and eventually to an ultra warm white color at sunset. This cycle of light is what our bodies are used too. Artificial lighting that is not consistent with natural light cycles can disrupt our circadian rhythms. According to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, circadian rhythms are physical and mental changes that occur over a 24-hour period. They respond primarily to light and dark in an organism's environment.
Different types of light can have different physiological effects. The blue/white light, which is similar to a bright midday sun, reduces melatonin levels and increases serotonin. This light is great for activities. Red/orange light, on the other hand, triggers melatonin to prepare for sleep. The body will produce dopamine, serotonin and cortisol in the correct amounts at the right times of the day if everything is in balance. When stray light enters the eyes, it causes disability glare. This is when your ability to correctly see distances and spaces. This happens, according to the report. . . Because blue light scatters more in the human eye." Although it isn't directly harmful to anyone's health, glare can cause traffic accidents and decrease driver safety.