In recognition of her groundbreaking work in sustainable lighting design, Chiara Carucci has been awarded the prestigious DarkSky “Wildlife Night Watch” Award. This award, a first of its kind, celebrates individuals who demonstrate a profound commitment to protecting wildlife from the effects of artificial night lighting. Hosted by DarkSky International, the award program acknowledges global advocates dedicated to reducing light pollution and preserving natural nocturnal environments.
Chiara’s efforts have focused on implementing environmentally conscious lighting solutions that both enhance visitor experience and safeguard ecosystems sensitive to artificial light. Her projects, such as interventions at sea turtle nesting sites, use innovative lighting strategies to prioritize natural darkness in ways that support wildlife habitats. This commitment is also evident in her recent lighting project in Italy’s Collepardo Caves, a designated Site of Community Importance. Here, Chiara collaborated with local experts, chiropterologists, and environmental researchers to protect the cave’s bat population by designing minimal-impact lighting, timed to align with the bats’ life cycles. Her approach emphasizes storytelling and perception to create awareness of the environmental impacts of lighting while balancing ecological needs with visitor engagement.
The award announcement took place during the virtual “Under One Sky” DarkSky event on November 9. Coinciding with the ceremony, Chiara presented at the Tartu Observatory, delivering a talk on the intersection of light pollution and ecological lighting principles, which was well-received by attendees and her fellow environmental advocates.
Chiara’s pioneering work also led to the creation of her own studio, Noctua – Cultural and Natural Heritage Lighting Design. Noctua is dedicated to merging research and practice, focusing on sustainable lighting that respects both cultural heritage and environmental sustainability. This studio represents a bridge between conservation goals and innovative design, ensuring that heritage sites and natural spaces are revitalized responsibly.
Alongside her project work, Chiara is a significant force in public awareness initiatives, including her role as an advisory board member for the “Lighting Police” initiative. This program aims to educate both industry professionals and the public on the consequences of excessive or misapplied lighting.
Bianca Gortárez Hernández, one of her nominators, praised Chiara’s unique approach to conservation, stating, “Chiara’s designs prioritize the value of darkness, providing the right light at the right time to protect wildlife.” Fellow lighting designer Katia Kolovea highlighted Chiara’s leadership, emphasizing her commitment to educating others and advocating for smarter lighting practices.
With the Wildlife Night Watch Award, DarkSky International celebrates Chiara’s achievements as a leader in sustainable lighting and environmental protection. Her work exemplifies the potential for responsible lighting design to harmonize human activity with ecological integrity. As Chiara puts it, “Recognition from DarkSky International is a milestone in my career and an encouragement to continue striving for environmentally responsible design.”
For more information on Chiara Carucci’s work and her studio, Noctua, click here.