What is it about?
This research examines the spatial relationship between nighttime light (NTL) intensity and urban crime risk. Using NASA’s Suomi NPP-VIIRS nightlight data (2021–2023) and advanced spatial analysis, we investigate whether well-lit areas experience lower property crime rates compared to poorly illuminated neighborhoods. Applying Negative Binomial Regression (NBRM), the study finds a significant negative correlation between NTL and crime, with larceny decreasing by 14.8% and burglary by 24.3% per unit increase in illumination. These findings underscore the importance of strategic lighting investments as a key tool for enhancing urban safety and crime prevention.
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Why is it important?
Urban crime threatens community well-being, economic stability, and sustainable city development. This study provides empirical evidence that strategic investments in lighting infrastructure can serve as an effective crime prevention tool. By highlighting the role of illumination in reducing crime risk, the findings offer valuable insights for urban planners, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies aiming to enhance public safety and design safer, more resilient cities.
Perspectives
The relationship between urban lighting and crime is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of urban safety planning. While traditional crime prevention strategies focus on policing and surveillance, this study highlights the potential of environmental design and urban infrastructure improvements in reducing crime. Future research could explore how different types of lighting (e.g., LED vs. sodium lights) or variations in brightness impact crime rates across diverse urban settings. Additionally, integrating human perceptions of safety with spatial crime patterns could further enhance our understanding of urban security dynamics.
Subham Roy
University of North Bengal
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This page is a summary of: Brighter Nights, safer cities? Exploring spatial link between VIIRS nightlight and urban crime risk, Remote Sensing Applications Society and Environment, January 2025, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.rsase.2025.101489.
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