Story perspectives

Denmark Replaces Street Lights to Protect Bats, Biodiversity

4/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Gladsaxe, Denmark, authorities replaced conventional street lights with red lamps to protect bats and other nocturnal creatures.
The change reduces light pollution and supports biodiversity while lowering reliance on chemical pesticides.
Residents are adapting, and some express safety concerns in darker areas.
Mayor Serdal Benli hopes other municipalities adopt similar sustainable lighting practices.
Experts say improved lighting can support biodiversity and address climate change as traditional lighting raises emissions.

1 of 1

Story summary

In Gladsaxe, Denmark, authorities replaced conventional street lights with red lamps to protect bats and other nocturnal creatures.
The change reduces light pollution and supports biodiversity while lowering reliance on chemical pesticides.
Residents are adapting, and some express safety concerns in darker areas.
Mayor Serdal Benli hopes other municipalities adopt similar sustainable lighting practices.
Experts say improved lighting can support biodiversity and address climate change as traditional lighting raises emissions.