What Glow-worms Teach Us About Darkness

The smallest lights can only be seen when it is truly dark. Unfortunately, genuine darkness has become increasingly difficult to find in the Netherlands. A recent article in de Volkskrant takes readers on a glow-worm expedition in Amsterdam’s Vliegenbos, an initiative that helps raise awareness about the importance of darkness.

Led by writer and BioClock partner Marjolijn van Heemstra, participants search for the faintly glowing beetles and discover the beauty hidden in the dark. The expedition also draws attention to a larger issue: light pollution.

According to Joke Meijer, founder of BioClock, light pollution disrupts our biological clock. A healthy day-night rhythm depends on sufficient daylight during the day and darkness at night. Disruptions to this natural rhythm can contribute to health problems such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and sleep disorders.

Nature and ecosystems also suffer from light pollution. Insects such as glow-worms depend on darkness for reproduction, and artificial light is believed to play a role in their decline. Even the growth patterns of trees and plants can be affected.

Through initiatives such as night walks and local projects, Van Heemstra aims to rekindle our “love of darkness.” The article demonstrates why this is so important: in one of the most brightly lit countries in the world, true darkness has become a rare commodity.

Read the full article here.