Remote sensing of night light pollution in national parks of the Czech Republic

Ostoja Cvijetić

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

Night light pollution, or artificial light at night (ALAN), has become a significant environmental issue that affects both the natural and human world. This bachelor thesis aims to investigate the overall development of night light pollution affecting the area of the Czech national parks during the last decade (2014 - 2022). The study was conducted by collecting data from various sources , including peer-reviewed scientific journals, online databases and official reports. The research begins with an overview of the causes and sources of night light pollution, followed by a detailed description of the various effects of ALAN on the environment. The research also investigates the importance of remote sensing in the study, processing and analysis of night light pollution. For collection data I used programming languages such as Java and Python. Also, for collection data I used Google Earth Engine. In conclusion, this bachelor thesis demonstrates that night light pollution is a significant environmental problem that has a profound impact on the environment and human health. The study suggests that there is an urgent need for effective strategies to reduce the harmful effects of ALAN. The research recommends the use of responsible lighting practices, such as the use of energy-efficient lighting and shielding lights to minimize light pollution.

Keywords

Remote Sensing, GIS, Night light pollution

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 7. 4. 2023

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 23. 5. 2023
• Supervisor: Ing. David Moravec, Ph.D.
• Reader: Petra Šímová, Ph.D.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Environmental Sciences

Bachelor programme:
Geographic Information Systems and Remote Rensing in Environmental Sciences