LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

Which lighting type is generally allowed for theatrical purposes from the light pollution reduction standards?

1. Fluorescent lighting

2. LED lighting

3. Specialized lighting for theatrical purposes

4. Incandescent lighting

The correct answer is: Specialized lighting for theatrical purposes

The lighting type that is generally allowed for theatrical purposes under light pollution reduction standards is specialized lighting for theatrical purposes. This is because theatrical lighting often needs to create specific mood, atmosphere, and effects that can include varying colors, intensities, and angles of illumination. As such, it is designed with performance in mind rather than general ambient lighting usage. Specialized theatrical lighting typically employs fixtures that are engineered to minimize light spill and skyglow, which aligns with the intent of light pollution reduction. By allowing these specialized systems, the standards recognize that certain lighting requirements facilitate creative expression and cultural events while still seeking to limit negative impacts associated with excessive or misdirected artificial light. Other lighting types such as fluorescent, LED, and incandescent, while common in general applications, are not specifically designed for theatrical settings and may not necessarily meet the same criteria for artistic expression and lighting control that specialized theatrical lighting provides. Thus, specialized lighting stands out as the appropriate choice in this context.