In 2019, Jönköping Municipality launched a project to test adaptive street lighting along Vätterstranden and Gränna, aiming to reduce energy use and protect marine life. The smart system brightens only when detecting movement, minimizing light pollution without compromising safety.
The project started in 2019 along Vätterstranden and in Gränna and was completed in 2022.
– Vätterstranden is frequently used by people during the day, but not as much during late hours. There is no reason for the luminaires to be fully light all night, says Tor Olsson, Lighting planner in the municipality of Jönköping.
Jönköping Municipality was curious about testing adaptive street lighting. They wanted the street lights to light up fully only when the movements of pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles are detected, in order to save energy and at the same time avoid disturbing marine life, but without compromising public safety.
– We looked at the project from both an ecological and a social point of view. We thought this pathway was a good choice as we wanted to avoid unnecessary light on the water, says Tor Olsson.
Studies suggest light pollution’s effects on coastal marine ecosystems are negatively impacting both fish and plankton. Researchers found shifts in hormonal cycles, interspecies behavior and reproduction.
– It is important for us to interact with the fantastic marine life in a responsible way, says Tor.
Pedestrian in the Municipality of Jönköping