To celebrate the UNESCO International Day of Light, which takes place annually on 16 May, the local BHA School of Lighting in Cape Town is hosting a free webinar on 22 May on how light drives innovation in society. Attendance is free, but registration is mandatory.
The webinar will be presented by Philip Hammond, lighting engineer at BHA Lighting Design & Consulting, and Educator at BHA School of Lighting. The presentation, titled “Illuminating the Future: How Light Drives Innovation and Society”, will dive into the multifaceted role of light in shaping science, technology, sustainability, and culture.
Hammond’s presentation will begin with an introduction to the UNESCO International Day of Light, highlighting its significance in promoting awareness of the impact of light-based technologies. The discussion will then move into the science of light, covering advancements in optics, photonics, and lasers as key drivers of scientific and technological progress.
Attendees will also explore how light plays a crucial role in solar energy, medical imaging, and fibre optic communication, as well as its applications in quantum optics and illumination. From there, BHA will examine light’s contribution to sustainable development, focusing on innovations in solar power, LED advancements, and the implementation of lighting solutions in agriculture, healthcare, and environmental monitoring.
“Beyond its scientific and technological aspects, light deeply influences art, culture, and society,” explained Hammond. That’s why the webinar will also discuss light’s significance in architecture, photography, and visual arts, alongside smart lighting solutions that enhance everyday life.
The session will also touch on the role of light in well-being, future innovations in light-based technologies, and how light continues to shape our world.
“Through these discussions, we aim to recognise the transformative power of light and envision a future where its innovations contribute to a brighter, more sustainable society,” said Hammond.
More info/register: www.bhaschooloflighting.co.za/webinars.