Urban Light Pollution Extends Allergy Season by 130 Days, Boosting Ragweed Growth
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 4
Urban Light Pollution Extends Allergy Season by 130 Days, Boosting Ragweed Growth
2 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 4
Summary
A PNAS Nexus study found trees in brightly lit Northeastern cities such as New York and Philadelphia release pollen earlier in spring and later in fall, stretching allergy season by as much as 130 days a year.
Researchers said artificial light disrupts plants’ response to day length, prompting longer pollen shedding and stronger growth in highly allergenic ragweed.
The study also linked light pollution to greater human sensitivity to allergens, worsening symptoms ranging from runny noses to asthma.
Nearly 80% of North Americans can no longer see the Milky Way because of streetlights, headlights and billboards, underscoring how widespread a pollution source may be reshaping urban health.