Introduction
High-intensity digital billboards have become increasingly in large cities in residential areas, including Bronx, and New York City. Several individuals have voiced health-related worries about these signs’ probable long-term impacts, despite the fact that advertising firms advertise their efficacy. This paper evaluates the public health dangers imposed by very bright digital billboards in the Bronx, New York. It examines economic, political, social, ethical, and environmental factors. In addition, this paper examines potential solutions to this issue and the best alternative for the region.
Health Effects of High-Intensity Digital Billboards
There is rising worry about the impact of high-intensity digital billboards on the health of Bronx, New York locals. The public’s health may suffer despite the fact that digital billboards are stunning works of art. The high-intensity digital boards are in most cases colorful and always keep flashing which once an individuals set their eyes on them, their eyes can become irritating and at the end making them encounter sleep challenges (Falchi & Bará, 2023). Also, it causes some serious disorders including breast cancer, diabetes, and heart disorders which are the top killing infections. Because to the possible risks to human health posed by continuous exposure to these advertisements, it is imperative that they be closely regulated to protect the safety of the populations in their area.
Political Background of the Issue
The contentious issue of high-intensity digital billboards in the Bronx, New York, centers on the legislative decisions made by regional leaders. There was a lack of forethought and investigation on the part of local officials who allowed high-intensity digital billboards to be installed in residential areas. The locals are understandably alarmed and annoyed by this flagrant lack of concern for their health and safety, since these structures provide a multitude of health concerns. The rising body of information pointing to the existence of these risks, coupled with the failure of the appropriate authorities to regulate them, has led to a precarious situation that requires immediate attention. In order to safeguard the health of their constituents and provide them with more peace of mind, local governments must do thorough study before supporting such advertising solutions (Tongyu et al., 2023). Because of the political decisions made by the local government, low-income areas are more likely to be exposed to the possible health threats given by these billboards. This has contributed to economic inequality.
Social Background of the Issue
In many cases where risks are involved, there is always a higher chance that the poor, middle income earners are always victims. This is because, they usually have no or little income to place themselves in a better position. In this case, there is inequity in Bronc, New York since the rich always have power over the poor. Solving the issue of high intensity digital billboards depend on the voices of the rich. Higher-income earners may afford to reside anywhere, even locations where billboards are not placed. On the other hand, low-income individuals lack more housing options, thus they are more inclined to settle in places where they are built. This uneven dispersal means that certain places are far more likely than others to be exposed to the risks imposed by high-intensity digital billboards. Putting up these billboards in economically depressed neighborhoods has led to an enormous inequity that has to be addressed. This disparity has a role in maintaining preexisting health disparities. The social setting of the issue is crucial to consider when drafting legislation to control the installation of high-intensity digital billboards in residential areas.
Economic Background of the Issue
The economic background of the issue of high-intensity digital billboards in the Bronx, New York, is driven by the economic benefits associated with advertising. These billboards offer businesses an effective means of advertising, attracting them to the area. While these billboards may generate revenue, the possible health dangers to locals are not included in that calculation. As a consequence, high-intensity digital billboards have been placed in neighborhoods, presenting a threat to the health of local inhabitants. The commercial interests pushing for these billboards to be put up in residential areas are blind to the potential negative effects on locals’ health. The monetary advantages of these billboards are now being put ahead of the health and safety of locals. In order to create effective rules to control the spread of high-intensity digital billboards in residential areas, it is necessary to take into account the issue’s economic context.
Associated Ethical Concerns
One primary ethical concern with digital billboards is the possibility of many privacy intrusions. The advent of high-powered digital billboards may be a catalyst for the extensive use of sensors and camera equipment to monitor individuals’ behavior and habits. Although individuals may assume this action is somehow moral/ethical, some individuals may misuse the information hence infringing individuals’ privacy. This may involve, either exposing/selling information to other individuals, third parties without the owner’s consent. It raises concern of developing a robust privacy policies to avoid this issue.
The potential threat that digital billboards pose to public safety is another moral considerations posed by their widespread use. The danger of accidents and injuries may be increased due to high-intensity digital billboards distracting drivers and pedestrians. But, in the case of an emergency, such billboards might distract first responders, delaying their response time. Thus, need to to make the required efforts to place digital billboards in safe regions and adopt appropriate safety measures to lessen the possibility of harm coming to passers-by due to accidents involving the billboards.
Growing evidence suggests prolonged exposure to high-intensity digital billboards may harm human health. Some people worry about digital billboards contributing to light pollution by using LED lights. These lights impact the normal functioning of an individual’s brain, affecting brain neurons and can be linked with health issues, for instance; it may lead to individuals lacking enough sleep due to this exposure (Zielinska & Xavia, 2019). Also, women exposed to these lights are more prone to suffer from breast cancer which is a great threat since cancer is one of the deadliest disorder. Since these are some of health concerns, a vigorous and comprehensive research is essential to understand all possible health issues connected to it.
Potential environmental damage from very bright digital billboards cannot be ruled out. The billboards’ production and eventual removal might add to the waste stream, which could have negative ecological consequences. LED illumination has the possibility of causing greenhouse gas emissions which affect the earth. Remember, greenhouse gas emissions have been a concern in today’s world, and a lot of efforts have been put in place to mitigate its impacts hence this issue being a threat. Finally, issues of equity arise from the usage of visible digital billboards. Putting billboards in low-income and minority neighborhoods may exacerbate such communities’ access and environmental justice issues. Hence, it is crucial to ensure that digital billboard placement is conducted and and that the potential consequences on groups more vulnerable to unfavorable effects are considered.
Possible Options for Resolving the Issue
Option 1: Ban the Use of Digital Billboards
Reducing the prevalence of digital billboards might help lessen the detrimental effect of constant exposure to bright lights. Before proceeding, the local administration, health department, and environmental activists should be consulted. The suggested approach might lessen the harmful impacts of digital billboards, but many firms depend on advertising income, so a ban could hurt their capacity to function and make a profit. Whether or if other types of advertising may have comparable or related detrimental effects on people’s health raises another question about the strategy’s effectiveness. Although banning digital billboards might protect individuals from being exposed to harmful high-intensity lights, it’s possible that this isn’t the most practical solution to the problem.
Option 2: Set Limits on the Brightness and Display Times
Limiting the amount of photons that digital billboards may generate and the duration that they can be exhibited is one way to address concerns about the detrimental impacts of bright lighting. But, the city council, advertising companies, and healthcare experts would all need to work together in order to put this idea into action. Protecting locals from the potentially dangerous effects of intense illumination necessitates restricting both the amount of light digital billboards are allowed to emit and the duration that they are permitted to display their advertisements. This strategy acknowledges the potential for digital billboards to affect public health and aims to mitigate the impact by putting in place restrictions. Besides, need to to remember that limiting screen time and brightness alone may not resolve the problem. Potential contributors to adverse public health effects include where digital billboards are located, the content shown, and the technology used
Option 3: Increase Public Awareness and Education
The public’s understanding and education regarding the risks posed by digital billboards is a key first step in reducing such risks. The public may be educated about the dangers of prolonged exposure to bright digital billboards via a collaborative effort between health practitioners, public health authorities, and advertising agencies. In order to warn the public about the possible dangers of being exposed to digital billboards, they may also organize informational campaigns. People would learn about the dangers presented by these billboards thanks to these campaigns, and they could then be more likely to take the safeguards they need. It would also be helpful to spread the word about UV filters for handsets and other digital equipment and protective eyewear that may help lessen the negative effects of staring at digital billboards for extended periods of time. People may lessen their exposure to digital billboards’ risks by learning about them and adopting safer practices. Light pollution poses serious health and safety risks, and it is imperative that all relevant parties work together to alert the public to these risks and provide them with the tools they need to be safe. For example, they could spend less time in areas with bright lights or get medical help sooner. Individuals and society may benefit from these changes in health and happiness.
Option 4: Develop Technology to Reduce the Harmful Effects of Digital Billboards
Researching and developing new technologies to reduce the harmful effects of digital billboards would be an innovative solution to the issue. Healthcare providers, marketing companies, and technology developers must cooperate for this plan to succeed. In order to lessen the risk of damage to eyesight and skin from prolonged exposure to high-intensity illumination, filters or coatings may be applied to digital billboards during production (Gaston & Sánchez, 2022). Furthermore, digital billboards and other artificial light sources may be set to automatically switch on and off or dim at certain times. In this approach, people’s exposure to artificial light at night may be controlled and reduced. These methods may lessen the risks to people and the environment posed by intense illumination, which is beneficial for everyone involved. High-intensity lighting has been linked to various health problems, but this tactic may help mitigate some risks. Another strategy that might be investigated is creating technology that adjusts the brightness of digital billboards at specific periods of the day. For instance, the intensity of the lighting might be decreased at night when it has the most significant impact. This tactic necessitates the deployment of cutting-edge technology that can tell what time of day it is and adjust the brightness of the billboard.
Option 5: Conduct Further Research
Doing an additional study on the effects of high-intensity digital billboards on human health is a vital step that requires the involvement of a wide range of stakeholders to develop a workable solution. To fully understand the risks that digital billboards may bring to humans, the environment, and all forms of life, this tactic entails performing in-depth investigations. Long-term and short-term consequences of high-intensity digital billboards on populations of people and animals, ecologies, and species need extensive investigation from the scientific, medical, public health, and environmental communities. They may better comprehend the effects of digital billboards and discover the most effective solutions if they work together to compile a thorough inventory of the risks posed by these displays.
Further research may be needed to inform the public about the risks presented by digital billboards and to identify solutions. Scientists may examine the impact of digital billboards on people’s circadian phases and sleep habits, for example, by evaluating the light’s wavelength that the displays emit. The impact of bright sunlight on ecosystems and living creatures might be examined. More effective remedies to the problems caused by digital billboards on people’s health might be found with the aid of study. Possible consequences of this investigation include creating devices that lessen the light intensity and determining modest amounts of exposure to high-intensity lights.
Rationale for the Chosen Option
The third option, which entails spreading knowledge and information, would have the largest effect regarding the risks posed by digital billboards as a key first step in reducing such risks. Outdoor advertising agencies should collaborate with government health professionals to teach the public about the dangers of digital billboards and how they may protect themselves from harm. People will be more aware of the need to take precautions around these indications, such as wearing protective eyewear, if the message gets out there. In addition, educational institutions may assist students learn to identify the early symptoms of health problems related to light pollution and know when to seek medical attention When it comes to raising awareness about the risks that digital billboards may pose to public health, registered nurses may play a pivotal role. The public may be made aware of the hazards connected with high-intensity lighting by means of open dialogue and instruction. Wide-ranging potential and usability justify recommending this course of action. Even without resources, nurses may promote this initiative. Nurses improve community and patient health as part of the healthcare team. Plain-English public health and wellness education campaigns may improve health outcomes, lower healthcare costs, and improve communities. Nurses may help provide health education materials to all socioeconomic groups.
In addition, education and creation of awareness may be put into action without delay, further study, or thorough planning because registered nurses are available. The first step is for RNs to educate their patients, clients, or communities about the dangers of high-intensity lighting and the preventative measures that should be taken. The development of widely disenable instructional materials may also benefit from collaboration with other important parties such as public health authorities and advertising corporations. It is generally agreed that preventative education and awareness-raising about the potential negative effects of high-intensity digital billboards in the Bronx are crucial. It is beneficial that the public be educated about the risks associated with these digital structures, and registered nurses, with their knowledge and experience, are ideally suited to lead the discussion and help mitigate any adverse health effects (Tongyu et al., 2023). Authorities and organizations must also keep an eye on the growing influence of high-intensity digital billboards to protect the public.
Conclusion
High-intensity digital billboards have recently been installed in the Bronx, New York residential neighbourhoods, prompting worries about their possible implications on local people’s health. Headaches, eye strain, weariness, and disturbed sleeping habits are only some of the adverse effects of prolonged exposure to the intense light generated by these electronic displays. The community needs to take action to lessen the severity of these consequences on health. Moreover, it is a worry that high-intensity digital billboards contribute to light pollution, which may harm the natural world. Light pollution has several negative impacts on the environment, including the disruption of individual’s sleep patterns and the disruption of astronomical observations, which contribute to climate change (Falchi & Bará, 2023). The issue’s political, social, and economic setting reveals that business interests drive the placement of these billboards and lead to social injustice. The vast divide between the two sets of people demonstrates this. Some proposed solutions are prohibiting their order in residential areas, limiting their brightness and the length of time the displays are on, and requiring companies to pay residents for any damage caused by the signs. The best course of action would be to prohibit their installation in residential areas since this would give the residents the most significant degree of safety there.
References
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Falchi, F., & Bará, S. (2023). Light pollution is skyrocketing. Science, 379(6629), 234-235.
Gaston, K. J., & Sánchez de Miguel, A. (2022). Environmental impacts of artificial light at night. Annual Review of Environment and Resources, 47, 373-398.
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Tongyu, W., Kaida, N., & Kaida, K. (2023). Effects of outdoor artificial light at night on human health and behavior: A literature review. Environmental Pollution, 121321.
Zielinska-Dabkowska, K. M., & Xavia, K. (2019). Global approaches to reduce light pollution from media architecture and non-static, self-luminous LED displays for mixed-use urban developments. Sustainability, 11(12), 3446.
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