Pasadena’s new streetlights are whiter LEDs

When a traditional streetlight’s yellow glow goes out, Pasadena crews increasingly have been replacing them with newer, more efficient technology: LEDs, which illuminate roads with a clearer, whiter light. This newer technology is in widespread use in cities across the country, including Los Angeles, because they use less energy and last longer. But the American Medical Association warns that there are right and wrong kinds of LEDs — and cities that use the wrong kind can harm residents’ health, including by disrupting sleep. On the other hand, lighting experts, including leaders of the Illuminating Engineering Society, say the AMA’s position may be overblown, and it’s important not to overlook other safety factors when it comes to lighting cities.