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Light pollution in urban environments has been a growing problem for decades. Paradoxically, the introduction of energy-efficient LED bulbs is making cities glow even brighter. Current research, including the 2017 Nobel Prize-winning research into the Circadian Clock Gene has determined that increased nighttime illumination has disruptive consequences for all forms of life: plants, animals, pollinators and humans alike. Studies have shown that light pollution unravels the intertwined tapestry of day and night pollinators, that it speeds up the circadian rhythm of birds and other city dwellers, including ours. We now know that circadian disruption in humans leads to elevated stress hormone levels, increased inflammation and reduced immune function among other significant health challenges, such as melatonin sensitive cancers.

BioPhilly 4 brings together a diverse panel of experts from the City of Philadelphia Office of Sustainability, the fields of entomology, occupational and environmental medicine, ornithology, urban landscape design, urban wildlife. and Philadelphia Parks & Recreation environmental education to discuss these shared challenges,

Sponsorship opportunities including table displays available. For information, please email BioPhilly.