An ecovillage in Co Tipperary has introduced a new lighting system designed to reduce light pollution and protect nocturnal wildlife such as bats and moths.
The lighting system was installed by the community in Cloughjordan to meet a condition of planning permission.
Encouraged by a local group of stargazers, residents were also keen to create a dark sky-friendly environment.
Ecological surveys have found that eight of Ireland's nine native bat species forage in the ecovillage, while 62 moth species were recorded in a single night.
In response, the community committed to protecting nocturnal biodiversity.
With special downlit poles and bollards, dimmable warm coloured LEDs and limited light-up hours, the system minimises artificial light pollution and disturbance to nocturnal creatures.
Lighting designer Kerem Asfuroglu said: "The lighting design here is an important precedent for Ireland where communities and authorities work together to protect their dark skies and environmental resources through the use of considerate design and latest technology.
"The design responds to seasonal variations in daylight hours, as well as human and bat activity," he said.
Nigel Quinlan, chair of Sustainable Projects Ireland, the educational charity behind Cloughjordan Ecovillage, said the new lighting strikes a balance between safety and environmental protection.
Operating at levels close to moonlight, the lighting allows people to walk and cycle safely at night while preserving the darkness needed by wildlife, he said.
Michael Tierney, public lighting engineer with Tipperary County Council commended the system.
"We hope that we can work together in the future to implement what you find here into what we do across the county."
Dr Niamh Roche of Bat Conservation Ireland said: "We hope that local authorities and developers will look to Cloughjordan Ecovillage as an example for how to minimise light pollution, protect bats, and still keep everyone safe."
