This Saturday, April 22 is internationally celebrated as Earth Day. On this occasion, the International Dark Sky Reserve (RICE) Alpes Azur Mercantour encourages its municipalities to turn off their public lighting for the entire night.
“It is high time to relight the stars.” RICE puts its own spin on Guillaume Apollinaire’s words. To relight the stars, it turns off its lights. The first edition was “a great success.” Nearly half of the 75 municipalities in the RICE participated in the initiative to highlight this event. In a tense energy and climate context, once again this year, they are answering the call.
The night of April 22 to 23 is an opportunity to look up at the celestial vault and appreciate the exceptional character of the reserve. A nighttime quality guaranteed and internationally recognized by the label awarded in 2019 by the American NGO International Dark Sky Association. It rewards and encourages commitment. This involves undertaking actions to reduce light pollution and preserve the night sky.
Commitment Throughout the Year
To celebrate this day, a program of activities, organized with the Alpes-Maritimes Department, is planned at Valberg. The resort offers an introduction to astronomy by trying out solar and night sky observation. Topics such as light pollution, zero waste, and interest in nocturnal animals will be discussed. Gourdon also celebrates Earth Day with a narrated walk to uncover the mysteries of the night—an activity organized by the Préalpes d’Azur Regional Natural Park.
“The past year has revealed the fragility of our environment with unprecedented drought and energy crisis. In response, many villages have undertaken nighttime light-outs to cope with energy supply difficulties.”
International Dark Sky Reserve (RICE) Alpes Azur Mercantour
A good number do not wait for April 22 to turn off their public lighting. Turning off the lights in the middle of the night has become a daily practice for more than half of the 75 municipalities that make up the RICE.
By 2025, the joint goal is to achieve 50% of renovated light points to mark the five-year anniversary of obtaining the International Dark Sky Reserve label. This initiative is supported financially by the Alpes-Maritimes Department.