International Day of Light

On 16 May 2019, people around the world will celebrate the central role that light plays in areas of science, culture and art, education, sustainable development, and in fields as diverse as medicine, communications and energy.

The scope of this UNESCO supported event is to spread appreciation of light and photonics technologies in people of all ages and all backgrounds. 

In particular some to the stated aims are to:

• Emphasise the importance of basic research in the fundamental science of light, the need for investment in light-based technology to develop new applications, and the global necessity to promote careers in science and engineering in these fields.

• Raise awareness that technologies and design can play an important role in the achievement of greater energy efficiency, in particular by limiting energy waste, and in the reduction of light pollution, which is key to the preservation of dark skies.

• Promote the importance of lighting technology and the need for access to light and energy infrastructure in sustainable development, and for improving quality of life in the developing world.

• Highlight and explain the intimate link between light and art and culture, enhancing the role of optical technology to preserve cultural heritage.

• Build worldwide educational capacity through activities targeted on science for young people, addressing issues of gender balance, and focusing especially on developing countries and emerging economies.

You can take part to one of the many planned events, or even organise one and have it listed among the official activities, check the website for more information.