Wales raises the bar in dark sky protection, making the UK a top destination for stargazing, preserving wildlife, and promoting sustainable tourism.Wales has taken a groundbreaking step as the first UK nation to implement official guidelines aimed at preserving its dark skies. The newly introduced Good Practice Guidance: Planning for the Conservation and Enhancement of Dark Skies is designed to protect natural nightscapes while promoting well-being, fostering wildlife conservation, and enhancing experiences for stargazers for generations to come.
Endorsed by the CEO and Executive Director of DarkSky International, this initiative serves as a crucial resource for developers, local councils, and planners. It emphasizes the importance of responsible lighting—ensuring illumination is used thoughtfully, at appropriate times, and in suitable locations to minimize disruption to natural darkness.By curbing light pollution, Wales not only conserves energy and reduces carbon waste but also strengthens its reputation as a leading destination for astrotourism.
The nation already boasts the world’s highest percentage of protected dark skies, making it an unparalleled location for celestial observation.From the breathtaking landscapes of Bannau Brycheiniog to the majestic peaks of Eryri, Wales is home to globally recognized Dark Sky Reserves, where visitors can witness as many as 2,000 stars on a clear night—far exceeding the mere 100 visible in most urban settings. Additionally, vari.
