Zoo Becomes Europe’s First Urban Dark Sky Reserve
Published 24 November 2025
Amsterdam’s historic Artis zoo has received certification from nonprofit DarkSky International, recognising its endeavours to reduce light pollution and protect the wellbeing of its animals during the night. It’s the world’s first zoo to be awarded this recognition and the first urban setting in Europe – an impressive feat in a country that ranks as one of the most light-polluted globally.
The zoo allows its captive animals, bats, birds and insects to enjoy their natural circadian rhythms without artificial light disruption. These efforts also benefit the neighbourhood surrounding the park by reducing residents’ exposure to light pollution and its negative health impacts.
Artis achieved its low-light status by running a wide-ranging study of its outdoor lighting, removing any fixtures deemed unnecessary and making modifications. From above, the zoo now appears as a dark shadow when compared with the surrounding light-saturated city.
This winter, the zoo is celebrating its certification by offering a limited number of guests after-hours park access. Visitors can participate in guided night walks where they’re able to learn about the benefits of natural darkness. They can also enjoy stargazing activities in the zoo’s planetarium.
The learnings from this are twofold. Firstly, it’s a demonstration of how animal parks and zoos can modify their environment to make life as comfortable and ethically managed for their residents as possible – a topic explored in Fun Family Leisure Trends. Secondly, it showcases how, even in urban settings, reducing sensory overload, including light, sound and digital engagement, can have a positive impact on wellbeing. Read Travel for the Anxiety Era for more.