Whitepaper: Non-White Light Sources for Nighttime Environments

LDS DLC Logo

May 19, 2022

The lighting industry needs an integrated approach to solving the unintended negative consequences of light pollution on the natural environment. In response to this need, the DLC has published a whitepaper that seeks to describe the landscape for a small but promising part of the solution: non-white light (NWL) LED light sources.

This whitepaper provides an overview of the state of the science and current recommendations for NWL light sources in outdoor lighting applications, as well as why the DLC is not addressing NWL LED luminaires in LUNA at this time. The paper suggests next steps to address gaps in existing research, standards, and guidelines that would make qualification feasible in the future.

Full Technical Whitepaper

The full whitepaper is recommended for individuals who are familiar with technical lighting science and terminology, and who want to understand the full scope of the non-white light research performed by the DLC. The whitepaper explains the methodology used to for the NWL market review and outlines the additional technical research needed in order to consider qualifying NWL sources under LUNA.

Download the whitepaper HERE

Executive Summary

The executive summary pulls out the most important takeaways from the whitepaper for those who would rather not dig so deeply into the science. The summary includes an overview of current recommendations for NWL sources in outdoor lighting applications and what you need to know about the state of NWL research.

Download the executive summary HERE

Non-White/amber Light FAQ

The Non-white/Amber Light FAQ answer common questions such as: what are the benefits of NWL, why are NWL sources not currently included in the LUNA Technical Requirements, and what are the necessary steps for the DLC to consider including NWL sources?

Download the FAQ HERE

Source

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Luminis Wins Red Dot Award for Pelican Line

    Luminis Wins 2025 Red Dot Award for Pelican Line

    Luminis, an established innovator and manufacturer of specification-grade, interior and exterior lighting solutions, has announced its Pelican family has received a Red Dot Design Award for Product Design. Dating back to 1955, the Red Dot Design Award is one of the world’s largest design competitions. Every year, the Red Dot Award: Product Design sets out… Read More…

  • May 19, 2025 - Contact Delage Announces New Representation Agreement with K-Array

    Contact Delage Announces New Representation Agreement with K-Array

    Contact Delage is pleased to announce their partnership with K-Array for the representation of their ultra-compact and powerful audio and integrated lighting solutions in the Quebec Province. Founded in Florence in 1990, K-Array is a true pioneer in high-performance compact sound. Their vision? To deliver uncompromising professional sound quality with a discreet and refined aesthetic.… Read More…


Design

  • Illuminate Your Project with Modern LED Panels

    Illuminate Your Project with Modern LED Panels

    Lighting plays a crucial role is shaping the ambiance and functionality of any space. At Zaneen, their modern LED Panel collection delivers high-quality lighting solutions with sleek designs, energy efficiency, and customizable options to meet diverse project needs. From trim designs like Harmony Elipse and Harmony Square to frameless panes like Infinite Honeycomb and Infinite Ring, to modular marvels like Infinite Canvas and… Read More…

  • T5 vs. T8 Lights – What’s the Difference?

    T5 vs. T8 Lights – What’s the Difference?

    T5 and T8 lights are two popular options when it comes to creating the right ambiance and lighting in a house, business, or commercial setting. But were you confused about these two light tubes when talking with suppliers? Don’t worry! In this article let’s discuss T5 vs. T8 tubes thoughtfully, so that you can make the right… Read More…


New Products

  • Cooper Lighting: Streetworks – Avenaire – Decorative StreetLight

    Cooper Lighting: Streetworks – Avenaire – Decorative StreetLight

    The Avenaire luminaire is a decorative streetlight perfect for downtown areas, residential streets, and parks, offering zero up light and a range of customizable features. You can choose from various optical distributions, color temperatures, and architectural styles to create the ideal ambiance for both day and night. Avenaire’s modular design empowers you to create the… Read More…

  • Liteline: New STRIPE Linear Lighting Solution

    Liteline: New STRIPE Linear Lighting Solution

    STRIPE is linear made easy. This sleek, plug-and-play, linear lighting system is designed for modern spaces. The easy to install construction enables seamless power connections through junction boxes, electrical device boxes, hardwiring and plug-in. Available in multiple lengths and capable of joining up to 150ft no light gaps. STRIPE’s modular design allows for creative configurations,… Read More…