Story perspectives

Belgium's Bold Move: Cutting Streetlights to Protect Nature

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Wallonia, Belgium project aims to remove 75 streetlights to curb light pollution and protect nature.
Local resident André Detournay expresses safety concerns about lights near villages.
Nicolas Goethals leads the initiative, based on research that streetlights do not significantly reduce crime or accidents.
Experts highlight the harmful effects of light pollution on wildlife, particularly insects, and Goethals plans to collaborate with French colleagues to expand darkness infrastructure across Europe.

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Story summary

The Wallonia, Belgium project aims to remove 75 streetlights to curb light pollution and protect nature.
Local resident André Detournay expresses safety concerns about lights near villages.
Nicolas Goethals leads the initiative, based on research that streetlights do not significantly reduce crime or accidents.
Experts highlight the harmful effects of light pollution on wildlife, particularly insects, and Goethals plans to collaborate with French colleagues to expand darkness infrastructure across Europe.