Peru takes a step forward that smacks of the future: the Government has in fact just approved a new regulation designed to protect the night sky, our health and the environment from an often invisible but profoundly impactful pollution, the light pollution.
This is the Supreme Decree n. 021-2025-MINAM, signed by President José Enrique Jerí Oré, which implements Law no. 31316 and defines a comprehensive framework to manage all artificial light sources that alter the night sky, ecosystems and human well-being. Starting from super bright advertising billboards, even with LEDs, the regulation will be applied to activities related to public lighting and sports, industrial or service infrastructures.
In short, a regulation that aims to reduce health risks, improve energy efficiency, increase road safety and protect the landscape.
Objectives that speak directly to the quality of daily life: less glare, fewer invasive lights that disturb sleep, less energy waste and better protection of nocturnal fauna, which is particularly sensitive to the presence of artificial lighting.
The underlying principle? The right of every person to live in a healthy environment suitable for their development.
What will change with the regulation
Why this regulation is important
According to the decree, the implementation will not require additional funds from the public treasury, but will be managed through the existing budgets of the ministries involved. Various ministries will have the task of promoting sustainable practices, supervising light installations and ensuring the adoption of solutions compatible with the protection of biodiversity and energy saving.
As provided for in Article 3, the complete text of the regulation and its annexes will be published on the Single Digital Platform of the Peruvian State and on the websites of the competent ministries. An important step to ensure that citizens, professionals and local administrations can easily consult the new rules, understand the obligations and implement the measures correctly.
Light pollution is often underestimated, but its effects are profound:
Having a detailed law that regulates its sources and limits its impacts is a strong signal: Peru recognizes the value of natural darkness as an ecological, cultural and energetic resource.
With this regulation, the country aligns itself with international best practices and shows a concrete commitment towards more responsible management of artificial light. It’s not just about less invasive street lamps or more controlled advertising signs: it’s an invitation to rethink the way we illuminate our cities and our nights, recognizing that darkness is not an obstacle, but a balance to be protected.
