Inquiry into the effects of light and noise pollution on human health, Lords Committee launched
30 January 2023
The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee today ( 30 January 2023) publishes its call for evidence and invites the public to share their views as part of its new inquiry into the impacts of artificial light and noise on human health.
Background:
Artificial light and noise are intrinsic in the modern world and the committee will explore the extent to which unwanted, inappropriate, or excessive artificial lighting or ambient noise may have negative impacts on human health. For example, claims have been made that artificial light can disrupt sleep and circadian rhythms, which can increase the risk of heart attacks and stroke.
The committee will explore the strength of the evidence for claims made about their effects on human health, the adequacy of the existing policy and regulatory framework for addressing light and noise pollution in the UK and options for reform to address any harmful effects identified.
The Committee invites written contributions to its inquiry by 11.59pm on Friday 3 March 2023.
The Committee seeks to understand:
- The evidence base surrounding the impacts of artificial light and noise on human health in the UK
- The nature of the current regulatory landscape for light and noise pollution, and how well these regulations are enforced
- How Government policy should be changed to minimise the impacts of artificial light and noise on human health.
The committee invites all those with an interest in artificial light and noise, but particularly experts in public policy on artificial light and noise, or the impacts on human health, to submit written evidence by Friday 3 March. The full call for evidence is available on the committee’s website.
