Circadian dynamics provides a novel method for assessing and mitigating urban light pollution
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Practical solutions for light pollution from Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) that balancing urban lighting with biological well-being remain challenging. Here we used a mammalian circadian-clock model to systematically explore how the intensity and duration of ALAN affect circadian rhythm through its dynamical behavior. The results show an apparent intensity-dependent transition from stable to instable responses in phase shift and amplitude as exposure extends later into the night. This suggests that circadian dynamics can be used as a model-based framework for further investigating urban-lighting strategies and developing exposure-specific guidance.
Source: Next Sustainability
Authors: Ran Xiao, Xinyuan Cai, Yi Xiao
Institution: Huazhong University of Science and Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,280
OpenAlex ID: W7222815840