MSc- thesis: The Dark Side of Light: A Multi-Level Perspective on Negotiating Society’s and Nature’s “Needs” in Politics and Art-Design Prototypes for Public Lighting

By Noel Caspar Haufs

This thesis explores how policymakers and artist-designers in Amsterdam have addressed the balance between societal needs for public lighting and nature’s need for darkness. Public lighting is crucial for nighttime activities but contributes significantly to light pollution, disrupting ecosystems and human health. Since 2015, the study examines how this issue has been negotiated within Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most light-polluted capitals.

Using the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) framework, the thesis analyses municipal policies and three art-design light innovation prototypes. It highlights a growing awareness among policymakers and designers about the importance of reducing light pollution, resulting in measures like dimming lights and increasing darkness. However, challenges remain for scaling up these innovations, as they are hindered by limited public budgets and the restrictions of the existing sociotechnical systems. While prototypes thrive in experimental, rule-free contexts, transitioning them into mainstream implementation faces significant barriers. The research identifies this as a "transition in the making" toward more sustainable public lighting practices.