I am grateful to DarkSky International for their recognition of my efforts, and to all those of good will who, for many years, have been striving to conserve the night. Fighting this battle can sometimes feel like going up a wall. There are many incredible people combating light pollution in Europe; to have been selected for this award fills me with enthusiasm to continue trying my very best.

I often like to say that reducing light pollution is not a zero-sum game: all stand to benefit from better-designed lighting. And this is not just about the night sky. Light pollution is wreaking havoc on our ecosystems and having an adverse effect on our own health. Policy makers should listen to the message that science has been delivering for many years now: light pollution is a serious problem with widespread effects.

I have dedicated this award to my past and present students at the University of Malta, volunteers within the Astronomical Society of Malta and the Light Pollution Awareness Group (LPAG), and the many selfless individuals working in environmental NGOs.