Night Earth

Taranto, Apulia, Italy

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Taranto, Italy seen from the ISS

Taranto is a coastal city located in the region of Apulia, southern Italy. The city has a population of approximately 200,000 inhabitants and is renowned for its stunning night lights. However, it is not only the beauty of the lights that is captivating, but also the impact of the light pollution in the area. Light pollution refers to the excessive and harmful use of artificial light that interferes with the natural darkness of the night sky, affecting both human and wildlife health.

Taranto is a historic city, with a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times. It is home to several historical landmarks, such as the Aragonese Castle, a majestic fortress that stands at the edge of the sea. The castle was built in the 15th century and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Other notable landmarks include the Cathedral of San Cataldo, a beautiful Romanesque church, and the MarTa, a contemporary art museum.

The city's night lights are mainly concentrated in the historic center, which is a hub of activity even after dark. The old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys, illuminated by the warm glow of streetlights and the vibrant lights of shops and restaurants. The streets are bustling with people, and the atmosphere is lively and welcoming. The promenade that lines the seafront is another popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering stunning views of the sea and the city.

However, the beauty of Taranto's night lights also comes at a cost. The city is known to suffer from significant light pollution, mainly due to the activities of the petrochemical industry. Taranto is home to one of the largest steel plants in Europe, owned by the multinational corporation, ILVA. The plant emits a large amount of light, contributing to the city's light pollution. The petrochemical industry is not the only culprit; the excessive use of streetlights, advertising, and residential lighting also contribute to the problem.

The level of light pollution in Taranto is estimated to be high, with the city ranking among the most polluted in Italy. The harmful effects of light pollution are well documented. The excess of artificial light can interfere with the natural rhythms of the human body, disrupting sleep patterns and causing other health issues. Moreover, light pollution affects wildlife by altering their behavior and disrupting their natural habitat.

Despite the challenges, the city of Taranto is taking steps to address the issue of light pollution. The local government has implemented measures to reduce the use of streetlights and promote the use of energy-efficient lighting. Furthermore, the petrochemical industry is also taking steps to reduce its emissions and limit its impact on the environment.

Taranto is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning night lights. However, the excessive use of artificial light has resulted in significant light pollution, impacting both human and wildlife health. Nevertheless, the city is taking steps to address the issue and promote sustainable lighting practices. Visitors to Taranto can still enjoy the beauty of its night lights while being mindful of the need to protect the environment.