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New publication sheds light: how far is far enough?

Pendoley & Kamrowski have published the results of yet another valuable study. The article, published by the Journal for Nature Conservation, recognises that marine turtles are particularly vulnerable to disruption from artificial light, and provides a practical and much-needed guide for environmental managers, practitioners, and decision makers involved in managing the complex issue of artificial light at night.

Pendoley & Kamrowski clearly delineate how large the no development ‘buffer zone’ should be to provide adequate protection for marine turtles in nesting habitat located near sources of artificial light. The study demonstrates the effects of three standard industrial light sources (high pressure sodium (HPS), metal halide (MH) and fluorescent white (FW)), positioned at distances of 100, 200, 500 and 800 m from sea-finding green (Chelonia mydas) and flatback (Natator depressus) turtle hatchlings.

To minimise potential impacts to hatchling turtles, industrial developments should be separated from nearby nesting beaches by a buffer of at least 1.5 km and all installed lighting should be appropriately shaded.

Contact Ruth Kamrowski for more information or a copy of this article at ruth.kamrowski@penv.com.au.

Citation: Pendoley, K. & Kamrowski, R.L. (2016) ‘Sea-finding in marine turtle hatchlings: What is an appropriate exclusion zone to limit disruptive impacts of industrial light at night?’ Journal for Nature Conservation (30) p1-11. ISSN 1617-1381, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2015.12.005.