LNP commits $250k to preserve dark skies
MALENY’S street lights could soon be replaced for more environmentally friendly LED lighting as part of an election promise by Glass House MP Andrew Powell.
The move is aimed at fast tracking the replacement of state-controlled lighting across the hinterland town to protect the region’s ‘dark sky’ status. The Maleny district has officially been recognised as the last area of coastal South East Queensland that is not severely affected by light pollution.
But streets and state owned buildings are currently illuminated by mercury metal halide that emit high blue green wavelengths and shine light above as well as below the bulbs. This has a detrimental affect especially on native fauna.
Mr Powell said if the LNP was elected, the new government would commit $250,000 to fast-track lighting replacement on all state-owned buildings in Maleny, such as the police station and hospital.
“The LNP will preserve our environment with more conservation and support for wildlife, through the Right Plan for Queensland’s Future,” Mr Powell said. “Our commitment to preserving Maleny’s Dark Sky status will benefit local wildlife by minimising the light pollution that wreaks havoc on so much of our local bird habitats and ecosystems.”
“Our commitment to Maleny’s Dark Skies is part of restoring a government that protects our environment by investing in conservation, biosecurity and technology. Convenor of the Maleny Observatory and Dark Skies ambassador Dr Ken Wishaw welcomed the announcement.
“The accelerated changeover of all state owned lighting to LED lights with light shields to direct light downwards will really make an impact on the wellbeing of our local wildlife, as well as reducing light pollution for stargazers,” Dr Wishaw said.
Greens candidate for Glass House, Andrew McLean, said the move was welcomed. “Constant light pollution has a huge impact on local wildlife,” he said. “Dark skies is one of the best things we can do to protect animals that are at-risk, so we welcome the initiative.” (But) any environmental program needs to strike at the root of the problem, not virtue signal around it.
“I encourage you to look at the wide ranging environmental programs that The Greens are promoting, from cleaning up our forests, rivers and oceans, to tackling climate change. For after all, if we destroy biodiversity, we destroy ourselves.”