SANTA FE, N.M. — Efforts aimed at reducing light pollution have garnered applause from advocates worldwide, particularly concerning actions taken by an oil and natural gas developer in New Mexico. DarkSky International, a group dedicated to preserving dark skies, announced its inaugural certification recognizing efforts by Denver-based Franklin Mountain Energy for implementing lighting retrofits at two sites and a new location within a significant oil production zone in southeastern New Mexico. These initiatives are expected to mitigate skyglow at notable locations such as Carlsbad Caverns National Park, a popular destination for astronomy enthusiasts and night hikers.

Peter Lipscomb, vice chair of DarkSky International's New Mexico chapter, highlighted the initiative's benefits, stating, “It doesn't do anything to impact their bottom line - it actually makes the workplace safer.” He emphasizes that effective lighting reduces direct glare, improving visibility for workers while also contributing to the restoration of the once unspoiled night sky. Meanwhile, Franklin Mountain Energy co-founder Audrey Robertson noted that the lighting adjustments will lead to reduced electricity use.

The collaboration involved several federal land and park agencies, alongside the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association. They provided recommendations for lighting equipment that effectively directs light downward and minimizes upward casting, addressing a gravely concerning trend where artificial lighting is increasingly brightening the night sky by approximately 10% each year. A study from 2023 highlighted that over 80% of the world’s population resides under polluted skies obscuring the beauty of the Milky Way.

In response to escalating light pollution, New Mexico lawmakers are working on an update to a 1999 law regulating outdoor lighting, primarily in the state's mountainous and desert regions. This initiative seeks to tackle the rise in unshielded outdoor lighting due to advancements in LED technology. The National Park Service has identified the protection of dark night skies as a priority, especially in remote areas including the Chaco Culture National Historic Park, which holds significant cultural importance for Native Americans, boasting very little permanent outdoor lighting.

Lipscomb further acknowledged oil operators in West Texas who are also adopting practices to safeguard starry skies, working closely with the McDonald Observatory near Fort Davis, where dark nights are crucial for their research and educational missions.