@misc{10481/58438,
year = {2019},
month = {11},
url = {http://hdl.handle.net/10481/58438},
abstract = {The introduction of artificial lighting has dramatically transformed nighttime activities,
becoming a very positive but also disruptive factor that must be optimized and adapted according to
the guidelines of sustainable policies. In this framework, night markets in Thailand are definitely
popular destinations among locals and tourists that are found in every town and city in the whole
country, being the source of livelihoods for many people. It is well-known that shops in night
markets frequently use colorful light sources, emitting high levels of illumination to attract customers.
Since previous research has shown environmental risks of inappropriate lighting on human health
and well-being, as well as on ecosystems, excessive lighting in night markets could have adverse
effects on vendors’ health if they are exposed to high illumination levels during long hours every
night. This is a risk for people, but also for their attachment to their lands, traditions, culture, and way
of life. This study was designed to explore whether excessive illumination of night markets has
impacts on vendors’ health and well-being. The research was conducted through an empirical study
in a night market in the center of Surin province (Thailand), using observations and a questionnaire
survey of 205 vendors and clients (non-vendors). The results show that night markets’ vendors were
more likely to suffer from eye- and sleep-related problems than non-vendors. Women were affected
more than men.},
publisher = {MDPI},
keywords = {Sustainable development},
keywords = {Lighting policy},
keywords = {Public health},
keywords = {Energy Savings},
keywords = {Thailand},
title = {Users’ Awareness, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Health Risks Associated with Excessive Lighting in Night Markets: Policy Implications for Sustainable Development},
doi = {10.3390/su11216091},
author = {Lai Nguyen, Thi Phuoc and Peña García, Antonio Manuel},
}