DarkSky Award recognises Chiara Carucci’s dedication in protecting nature

Trailblazer in sustainable lighting design, Chiara Carucci, has been announced as a winner at the DarkSky Awards, recognising her commitment and passion for environmental protection.

The awards are run by DarkSky International to recognise dark sky advocates from around the world, who are working to protect the night from light pollution. Chiara was named as the first ever winner to receive the coveted ‘Wildlife Night Watch’ award. The accolade is awarded to individuals whose decisive actions have been instrumental in conserving and protecting terrestrial and/or aquatic wildlife species sensitive to artificial light at night.

Winners have to be able to demonstrate efforts such as restoring natural nocturnal conditions in protected areas by eliminating unnecessary lighting or implementing smart lighting practices on site.

The announcement was made as part of the virtual DarkSky ‘Under One Sky’ event, held on 9^thNovember.  The event coincided with Chiara delivering a talk at the Tartu Observatory at the University of Tartu, focusing on light pollution and ecological lighting principles. The news of her award win was welcomed by attendees and the other speakers present.

Winning the Wildlife Night Watch Award is a testament to Chiara’s commitment to creating lighting designs that push boundaries to incorporate innovative solutions for conservation. Chiara’s projects exemplify her dedication to harmonising human progress with environmental preservation.

Chiara received multiple nominations naming her as a deserving winner of the Wildlife Night Watch award. In nominating her, Bianca Gortárez Hernández said, “Chiara’s forward-thinking approach to conservation is evident in her innovative projects, such as the pilot interventions for sea turtle nesting sites. Her designs prioritise the value of darkness, creating the right light at the right time to protect wildlife.

Chiara’s contributions not only meet but exceed the award’s criteria, showcasing her as a leader in wildlife conservation and sustainable lighting design.”

Complementing this, Katia Kolovea said, “Chiara’s leadership extends beyond her projects. She plays a crucial role for the Lighting Police; an initiative devoted to raising awareness about the adverse effects of poor lighting and light pollution. As a member of the advisory board, her guidance has been invaluable in shaping effective strategies and campaigns that have resonated with professionals and the public alike.”

On winning the award, Chiara said: “Being recognised by DarkSky International is a huge accomplishment, at such a fantastic period in my life.

I am continually grateful for the work of Annika Jägerbrand, Travis Longcore, Dr. Kellie Pendoley and all the others who conduct research on a daily basis. It enables us to be more conscious and informed in our professional activities, as we strive to protect our shared natural heritage.”

This prestigious award win comes shortly after the launch of Chiara’s new studio, Noctua – Cultural and Natural Heritage Lighting Design. Chiara launched Noctua as a bridge between research and practice, aiming to protect heritage while embracing the future.

Noctua aims to revitalise spaces by integrating cultural narratives with environmental responsibility, while ensuring conservation and social sustainability.

With this award, Chiara and Noctua are even more committed to pioneering sustainable lighting solutions that preserve and enhance the beauty of our world, both natural and cultural, for all living beings.