The International Year of Lightand Light-based Technologies

2015

CommunicationsHealth Economy Environment Social

International Year of Light

International Year of LightStressing that enhanced global awareness of and increased education in the science and technologies of light are vital for addressing challenges such as sustainable development, energy and community health, as well as for improving the quality of life in both developed and developing countries

Considering that the applications of light science and technology are vital for existing and future advances in medicine, energy, information and communications, fibre optics, astronomy, architecture, archaeology, entertainment, art and culture, and that light-based technologies contribute to the fulfilment of internationally agreed development goals, including by providing access to information and increasing societal health and well-being

Considering also that technology and design can play an important role in the achievement of greater energy efficiency, in particular by limiting energy waste, and in the reduction of light pollution

What the UN wantsTo promote light technologies for improved qualityof life in developed and developing world

To reduce light pollution and energy waste

To promote women’s empowerment in science

To promote education amongst young people

To promote sustainable development

Potential is very broadOrigin of Life

Healthcare

Communications & GPS

Optical Instruments

The Universe

Potential is very broadCultural Heritage

Education for All

Nature

Light and Art

Light pollution, technologySmart lighting can both highlight culture and reduce light pollution

Optical technologies give new impetus - from art to archaeology

Addressing global challengesLight technologies provide solutions to challenges in energy & climate change

Focus on development

Internet use by population75% in Europe16% in Africa

Study after sunset is not possible in many developing countries

Endorsement“Light gives us life through photosynthesis, lets us see back in time towards that cosmic big bang, and helps us communicate with the other sentient beings here on Earth. The optics and photonics technologies developed for space exploration have rendered many valuable spin-off applications in everyday life.” John Maher (Nobel Prize 2006)

Civilization would not exist without light; light from our Sun and light from the focused and coherent lasers which now have become an important part of our daily lives. The International Year of Light will surely raise awareness of these powerful discoveries and their present wide-ranging, light-based technologies which are significant contributors to the world market. As importantly, the International Year of Light will inspire future discoveries and applications for one of the most important element of our existence: light.Ahmed Zewail (Nobel Prize 1999)

Science base

PartnershipEducation

Linking new communities

Outreach to the public and decision makers

Direct benefit to society in developing and developed countries

High profile events throughout 2015

IYL Opening Ceremony19-20 January 2015, 1500 attendees, global webcast

Nobel laureates

Diplomats

Politicians

Scientists

Industry Leaders

UNESCO Programme Leaders

This is like nothing we have ever done before

In 2009, the International Year of Astronomy reached 815 million people in 148 nations

We can do even better in 2015

The International Year of Lightand Light-based Technologies

2015

We will only get one chance