The Human Side of Environmental Issues: Psychology’s Role in Addressing Light and Noise Pollution

Dr Michael Lomas

The thing I love most about being an Environmental Psychologist is the sheer diversity of areas to which the discipline can be applied. On a selfish level, this allows me to satisfy my apparently never-ending intellectual curiosity (which, unsurprisingly, was the primary drive for me becoming an academic). Perhaps more selflessly, however, it allows me to dedicate my time and energy to research with a high potential for impact on such important global issues as climate anxiety, sustainable transport solutions, urban regeneration, fuel poverty, and the physical and mental health benefits of nature exposure.

Most recently, my focus has shifted to the two environmental issues of light and noise pollution. Light pollution refers to the excessive, misdirected or unwanted artificial lighting at night (ALAN). It manifests in various ways: the brightening of the night sky (skyglow), illumination spilling into areas where it is not intended (light trespass), visual discomfort from glare, over-illumination, and the clustering of intense lights (light clutter). Noise pollution arises from excessive anthropogenic sound.

It’s noteworthy that while perceptions of light and noise can be subjective (an outdoor concert being welcomed by attendees while being resented by nearby residents, for example), their ecological consequences are undeniable, and there is growing awareness of the significant impact they have on biodiversity and natural ecosystems. This is the focus of PLAN-B, a four-year, €2.4 million Horizon Europe initiative involving twelve consortium partners across eight countries. A hugely collaborative and interdisciplinary effort, the project integrates ecology, environmental engineering, acoustics, urban planning, law, social sciences, and psychology.

“The impact of light and noise on natural ecosystems – where does Psychology come into that?’, you may find yourself asking! Well, the answer is that in looking to find solutions to such environmental issues, human behaviour is key. With continuing population growth, expanding urbanisation, and the emergence of night lifestyle comes increased noise and artificial light, through street lighting, advertising, traffic, aircraft, and construction. To develop effective solutions, we first need to understand public perceptions of light and noise pollution. We must identify the factors that can motivate people to engage with, or resist, mitigation measures, as well as to promote environmentally responsible choices.

It is also important to remember that, as humans, we too form part of the biosphere, and we are also impacted by light and noise pollution. The human body is sensitive to changes in light, and excessive nighttime lighting can interfere with hormone regulation, circadian rhythms, sleep, and metabolism, with further consequences for mental health and cognitive function. Prolonged exposure to excessive noise can lead to hearing damage, increased blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, and heightened stress hormone levels. These effects can have further consequences for mental health, including sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression.

In February 2025, we held our annual PLAN-B General Assembly meeting in Leipzig, Germany.  This brought together both consortium members and stakeholders alike to reflect on the project’s first year and coordinate our efforts moving forward. We considered not only the scientific dimensions of light and noise pollution, but also the social and psychological factors driving them, and how policy and legislation come into play. The value of interdisciplinary collaboration was especially apparent, as we work towards our goals of developing:

• An open-access knowledge database on the environmental consequences of light and noise pollution.
• Models for evaluating noise and light impacts.
• Light and noise pollution maps of Europe.
• Sustainable Communities of Practice.
• Policy briefs with recommendations for strengthening legal and policy frameworks.
• A handbook of innovative regulatory, social, environmental, planning, and technological solutions for light and noise pollution.

As our work continues, citizen participation and public engagement remain key priorities. Not only is it imperative that we raise public awareness of the significance of excessive light and noise as environmental pollutants, but it is also vital that diverse voices contribute to our ongoing activity. Through such efforts, we hope to collectively illuminate the path towards healthier ecosystems and greater quality of life for all.

Dr Michael Lomas is an Environmental Psychologist and the Head of Psychology at the University of Salford.