On Monday, 13 April 2026, as part of International Dark Sky Week, a special awareness activity on light pollution was carried out in collaboration with Primary School I Murska Sobota for 3rd grade students. The activity was organized by the Development Centre Murska Sobota, with the aim of introducing the importance of preserving the natural night environment in an accessible and engaging way.

Dark Sky Week is an international initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the negative impacts of excessive and inappropriate artificial lighting. It encourages reflection on the responsible use of light, the protection of nature, and the preservation of the night sky, which plays a crucial role for many organisms. Light pollution affects animal life cycles, disrupts the navigation of migratory birds, reduces insect populations, and also impacts the quality of human life.

Students explored the topic through the interactive board game Journey through a Bright Night, designed by scientist Annette Krop-Benesch. Through the game, they discovered how artificial light affects different animal species and the challenges these species face in a modern, brightly lit environment.

Game-based learning proved to be a highly effective approach, as it encourages active participation, curiosity, and learning through experience. Such learning experiences often leave a lasting impression, as students connect knowledge with personal engagement and exploration.

The aim of the activity was to encourage students to reflect on the importance of dark skies and to empower them to adopt responsible behaviour in their everyday lives.

Photos by Development Centre Murska Sobota