Many animal and plant species are evolutionarily adapted to the natural light variations of the day, with the moon being the main light source at night. However, humans' need for security has led to an increased use of artificial light, which in practice shortens or completely eliminates the darkness of the night. Lighting planning has so far been primarily based on humans, while the needs of animals have often been overlooked.

Bats are particularly sensitive, with a demonstrated negative impact on their movement patterns and population size. The effects of artificial light on biodiversity have received greater attention in recent years, but more knowledge is needed. In cities, preserved nature or green areas are important as ecological corridors and islands in the barrier that the city otherwise constitutes. Close to the city and accessible nature makes it easier for people living in the city to experience biodiversity.

During the first year of the study, we will evaluate conventional LED lighting with a cold color temperature and high light intensity and then compare it during the second year with new lighting with a warmer light color, lower light level and shielding of spill light. We will inventory bats and insects, measure light parameters and spill light and conduct interviews with users of the park road about their experience of safety and accessibility.

The study is expected to highlight goal conflicts between people's need for safety and the ecological requirements of wildlife, but also show possible synergies. The result of the comparison between conventional and adapted lighting, i.e. whether the adapted lighting works in terms of the accessibility of the site, perceived safety and less affected wildlife, can be applied in future planning of urban green areas.