Light on nature's terms 24 hours a day

It's not just the lighting that's new, but also the way it's implemented. The lights use an innovative nature lens developed in Finland, which is a good alternative for nature and wildlife. 

Espoo Central Park is the city’s lungs with more than 1,000 hectares of continuous green area. The park offers city dwellers the opportunity to spend time outdoors, exercise and relax in the midst of nature. The area is also home to a diverse group of nocturnal animals, such as bats, hedgehogs and owls, whose habitat is significantly affected by light.

Standard LEDs contain blue wavelength. The human eye does not consciously detect it, but the light interferes with the circadian rhythm of several animal species. The nature lens almost completely filters out blue light, which means that lighting remains sufficient for humans, but is significantly more natural for wildlife that can maintain their own circadian rhythm without disturbance. 

- The Amber lighting developed by Greenled and Ledil makes it possible to keep the lights on throughout the night. It is a simple but unique solution, even on a global scale, that has significant environmental impacts, says Erika Ketola, expert in outdoor lighting at Greenled. 

The part of the Central Park in question has previously been completely unlit at night. With the reform, the trail is now safely lit 24 hours a day, without compromises on biodiversity. This also opens up new opportunities for city residents, as they can go jogging early in the morning or late in the evening. From now on, the outdoor trails can be used safely every day of the year. At night, the light output is reduced by half, which contributes to cost savings.  

Espoo is known for its commitment to sustainable choices. The city’s objectives emphasise the preservation of biodiversity and ecologically responsible urban planning. The new lighting solution in the Central Park is a concrete example of how technology and environmental values do not need to conflict with each other.

- It was important for us to find a solution that combines safety, usability and respect for nature. The new lighting solution is energy-efficient, convenient and adaptable, says Emil Kaila, transport technology manager responsible for lighting in the City of Espoo.

The new luminaires will serve Espoo residents for several decades, and nature in the area will be able to continue its life without stress factors. The new lighting in Espoo Central Park is a fine example of how public lighting can consider both people and the environment.  Espoo is one of the cities that sets an excellent example in combating unnecessary light pollution and building sustainable lighting.