Parcs

ID	TITEL	DATENTYP	AUTOR	JAHR
55467	Naturnacht - Dark Sky Reserve	Project	Nationalpark Gesäuse GmbH	2021
32483	Universitäre Abschlussarbeiten Nationalpark Gesäuse	Project	Nationalpark Gesäuse GmbH	2002

Bemerkungen/Beschreibung

Daily, lunar, and seasonal cycles of natural light have existed for millions of years, guiding life on Earth. These rotations are among the most stable environmental parameters, unlike temperature or atmospheric composition. Biological systems and processes are intricately organized by natural light patterns. 
Recently, light pollution and artificial light at night (ALAN) have gained significant attention from both scientists and the public. Concerns range from the impact on human health to economic and environmental issues linked to increased energy demand. Nature conservation actions have become crucial, particularly in response to the current energy crisis, the accelerating climate change and increasing biodiversity loss. In central Austria, an alliance of six protected areas aims to preserve dark landscapes, potentially forming the largest contiguous darkness conservation area in the Eastern Alps. 
This thesis complements the planning and application process of an International Dark Sky Reserve by providing an ecological assessment using light-averse bats as indicator species, explicitly Myotis and Rhinolophus species. The research focuses on two primary questions: 1) Can the proposed core zone of the target area sufficiently protect nocturnal biodiversity? 2) What needs to be done to ensure a well-connected, dark, and natural landscape in the whole target area? To answer these, the study employs GIS analysis of bat data and light pollution data, as well as a screening of different light pollution mitigation strategies and responsible lightning plans. 
Findings show that only 10,00% of recorded maternity roosts are inside the core zone of the proposed International Dark Sky Reserve. Nearly half (46,81%) of all maternity roots investigated are directly impacted by light pollution, increasing to 68,09% within a 2,5 km radius. To enhance protection, including maternity roosts in the core zone is challenging in practice. Light management strategies, such as those outlined in the ÖNORM O 1052, provide a structured basis to mitigating light pollution across the entire target area. Seasonal variations in lighting schedules, adjustments to spectral composition, direction, and intensity, and a hierarchical approach based on bat sensitivity are critical for effective conservation. 
By integrating ecological knowledge with structured lighting regulations, this study contributes to ensuring a well-connected dark landscape that supports nocturnal biodiversity while balancing conservation and human activities.

Eintrag Nr. 55466

Natural Darkness and its Significance for Nature Protection Measures - Ecological assessment of the zonation of a planned International Dark Sky Reserve using light-averse bats as indicator species