What is the purpose of shielding exposed light sources in outdoor lighting?

The purpose of shielding exposed light sources in outdoor lighting primarily focuses on the reduction of light pollution. When light sources are shielded, they minimize the scattering of light into unwanted areas, such as the night sky or adjacent properties, which helps in preserving the natural darkness of the environment. This is particularly important because excessive light pollution can disrupt ecosystems, interfere with astronomical observations, and even affect human health by disturbing natural sleep patterns.

While improved aesthetic appeal, enhancement of light quality, and savings on energy consumption are valid considerations in lighting design, shielding specifically targets light pollution as its key objective. By controlling where and how light is emitted from fixtures, lighting designers can create a more visually appealing and environmentally responsible lighting scheme that aligns with sustainable practices, addressing concerns like glare and sky glow.