#Netherlands #Amsterdam #ARTIS Zoo #DarkSky International

A Bright Endeavor for the Dark: ARTIS Zoo's Historic Achievement in Amsterdam

In a remarkable recognition for ecological preservation, Amsterdam's Royal Zoo ARTIS has been awarded the prestigious certification as an Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International. This certification marks a pivotal moment, making ARTIS not only the first site in the heart of a European capital to receive this accolade but also the first zoo globally to earn such a distinction. The award honors the zoo's dedicated efforts towards minimizing light pollution and emphasizes the importance of preserving darkness for both wildlife and human well-being.

Nestled in the bustling center of Amsterdam, ARTIS Zoo provides a serene counterbalance to the city's vibrant nightlife, acting as a sanctuary where natural darkness persists amidst the urban glow. This unique characteristic is beneficial for the welfare of the animals residing in the zoo. The nighttime environment allows for a better quality of rest for creatures of both the human and animal varieties. The conservation-focused initiative highlights the zoo's commitment to protecting nocturnal wildlife and promoting a more harmonious coexistence with nature.

Dan Oakley, a representative from DarkSky International, expressed the significance of this certification:

"It’s fantastic that ARTIS has been certified as an Urban Night Sky Place. The fact that, in a zoo in the light-filled city of Amsterdam, the night sky is being protected—and its importance explained to the public—is tremendously valuable."

The Importance of Preserving Darkness

With the Netherlands ranked among the most light-polluted countries globally, the need for restoration of natural darkness is more critical than ever. Artificial lighting in urban environments rises by about 10% each year, leading to disruptions in biological rhythms, disorientation among animals, and adverse effects on human health. The certification of ARTIS serves as a clarion call for the necessity of acknowledging and tackling light pollution.

As an ambassador for the night sky, ARTIS aims to enhance awareness surrounding the consequences of light pollution on the environment. In winter 2025, the zoo has plans to host a series of activities designed to immerse visitors into the beauty of the night. During these evening openings, a limited number of attendees will have the opportunity to explore the park, fully experiencing the tranquility it offers, and rediscovering the splendor of the stars in the ARTIS Planetarium.

Savitri Groag, the Sustainability Coordinator at ARTIS, emphasizes the crucial need for darkness:

"Darkness plays a crucial role for plants, animals, and humans. By switching off lights, we return nature's natural bio-rhythm. This certificate proves that even in the heart of a major city, nocturnal darkness can be protected."

The efforts of ARTIS Zoo encapsulate a forward-thinking approach to urban wildlife management and environmental conservation. If more institutions follow in its footsteps, we may observe a greater shift towards protecting our night skies and the myriad of life they harbor. Through this achievement, ARTIS sets a benchmark for urban settings around the world, showcasing that beauty need not be illuminated to be appreciated.

With this significant recognition, ARTIS Zoo is poised to inspire other zoos worldwide to follow its example, bringing forth more DarkSky certified locations that prioritize the preservation of our natural nightscape. For more information on ARTIS and their initiatives, please visit ARTIS's official website.