Final answer:
LEED v4 addresses light pollution reduction by utilizing exterior lighting with specific ratings that minimize light pollution. The International Dark-Sky Association focuses on conserving dark skies, and reducing light pollution also benefits wildlife, reduces energy usage, and preserves the natural night sky.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of LEED v4, the method used for light pollution reduction often involves selecting exterior lighting with specific ratings. These ratings help to ensure that lighting is designed to minimize light pollution, which not only affects astronomers but also has broader implications. Light pollution can disrupt the life cycles of animals and lead to unnecessary municipal expenses and use of fossil fuels. One of the organizations that focuses on this issue is the International Dark-Sky Association, which promotes the conservation of dark skies.
Project teams can address light pollution by considering the brightness and directionality of light fixtures, often referred to as 'luminaire ratings' or 'light trespass' ratings on product specifications. By using fixtures that minimize upward light spill and glare, project teams contribute to preserving dark skies and mitigating the effects of light pollution on the environment and human health. Non-astronomical reasons to oppose light pollution include its impact on wildlife, unnecessary energy consumption, and the overall aesthetic degradation of the night sky for everyone.