Whitepaper: Non-White Light Sources for Nighttime Environments

LDS DLC Logo

May 19, 2022

The lighting industry needs an integrated approach to solving the unintended negative consequences of light pollution on the natural environment. In response to this need, the DLC has published a whitepaper that seeks to describe the landscape for a small but promising part of the solution: non-white light (NWL) LED light sources.

This whitepaper provides an overview of the state of the science and current recommendations for NWL light sources in outdoor lighting applications, as well as why the DLC is not addressing NWL LED luminaires in LUNA at this time. The paper suggests next steps to address gaps in existing research, standards, and guidelines that would make qualification feasible in the future.

Full Technical Whitepaper

The full whitepaper is recommended for individuals who are familiar with technical lighting science and terminology, and who want to understand the full scope of the non-white light research performed by the DLC. The whitepaper explains the methodology used to for the NWL market review and outlines the additional technical research needed in order to consider qualifying NWL sources under LUNA.

Download the whitepaper HERE

Executive Summary

The executive summary pulls out the most important takeaways from the whitepaper for those who would rather not dig so deeply into the science. The summary includes an overview of current recommendations for NWL sources in outdoor lighting applications and what you need to know about the state of NWL research.

Download the executive summary HERE

Non-White/amber Light FAQ

The Non-white/Amber Light FAQ answer common questions such as: what are the benefits of NWL, why are NWL sources not currently included in the LUNA Technical Requirements, and what are the necessary steps for the DLC to consider including NWL sources?

Download the FAQ HERE

Source

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • August 27, 2026 - Symmetry Lighting Announces David McCrone as Their New Commercial Sales Manager

    Symmetry Lighting Announces David McCrone as Their New Commercial Sales Manager

    Meet David McCrone, Symmetry Lighting’s new Commercial Sales Manager!⁠ David brings extensive leadership experience in the lighting and electrical industries. His combination of industry expertise and technical knowledge is a valuable asset as they continue to grow and enhance the support they provide to their customers and partners. They are very excited to have him… Read More…

  • August 26, 2026 - Ben Fischer & Andrew Parker Promoted at Salex

    Salex Announces Two New Leadership Updates

    Salex is excited to share two important leadership updates! Ben Fischer, Principal has been appointed Vice President Sales & Strategic Accounts, where he will lead Salex’s overall sales strategy, supporting continued growth across their markets while strengthening their sales teams, key accounts, and manufacturer partnerships. Andrew Parker P.Eng., Principal has been appointed Vice President Technical… Read More…


Design

  • Lumenpulse: Ethernet as a Backbone for Lighting

    Lumenpulse: Ethernet as a Backbone for Lighting

    Ethernet is a high performance and reliable networking technology that has been making inroads into architectural LED lighting applications. Having undergone decades of research and development as a workhorse of the IT industry, Ethernet brings a refined pedigree to a lighting industry which is trending toward highly intelligent light fixtures and services. This article highlights… Read More…

  • LEDVANCE: Four-Inch vs Six-Inch Recessed Lighting – Which Is Better?

    LEDVANCE: Four-Inch vs Six-Inch Recessed Lighting – Which Is Better?

    When you need to add lighting to rooms in your commercial and residential spaces, one of the most popular options today is to install recessed light fixtures. It provides a visually pleasing effect while saving space, especially on ceilings. However, many people are confused about which size is appropriate for their needs. Usually, people hesitate… Read More…


New Products

  • WAGO: Lighting Management Solutions

    WAGO: Lighting Management Solutions

    WAGO Lighting Management is a sophisticated solution for lighting control in large spaces such as production facilities and warehouses. Using a combination of predefined hardware and user-friendly software, WAGO offers a lighting management system that facilitates design and commissioning of new lighting systems while providing numerous additional advantages for their operation. Read More…

  • Leviton – Certolux Visioneering (Viscor): LMNW Series LED Wide Commercial Wrap Luminaire

    Leviton – Certolux Visioneering (Viscor): LMNW Series LED Wide Commercial Wrap Luminaire

    When dependable row mounting performance and broad, uniform illumination are required, the LMNW wide commercial wrap delivers a practical solution for both renovation and new construction projects. Designed as a versatile commercial wrap, LMNW combines a wide footprint with a fully illuminated polycarbonate lens to provide smooth, even light distribution while helping simplify upgrades from… Read More…