The relation between limited availability of outdoor lighting and local independent mobility in neighbourhood environments: a pilot field study in South Africa

The proposed project extends our research on user experience of energy-efficient outdoor lighting in neighbourhood environments.

The aim is to advance knowledge regarding effects of the limited availability of outdoor lighting on residents’ neighbourhood perceptions and local independent mobility after dark. The project is based on theories of human-environment transactions adapted to understand residents’ experience.

In collaboration with the local lighting consultant, a pilot field study will be conducted in two neighbourhoods in South Africa where the availability of outdoor lighting is limited due to resource problems.

Such lighting solution will be evaluated by focus group interviews and technical measurements of the lighting attributes. The findings would help to demonstrate the potential of changes in outdoor lighting.

Moreover, the project would provide a comparative case study which expand knowledge and exchange practice with international partners.