Reduction and prevention of artificial sky glow and radio-frequency interference is a priority goal of the IAU.  Commission B7 was established on the basis of its proposal to address these critical issues.

Our Vision:

• To make tangible progress in stopping the encroachment of artificial sky glow and radio-frequency interference on major astronomical research facilities.
• To raise public awareness to prevent the losses caused by light pollution for all observatories and for the fundamental right to starlight as in Resolution 2009-B5.
• To work with relevant national and international authorities to set up legal policies and guidelines for the protection of astronomical quality of areas suitable for observational research and/or meriting astronomical world heritage status.

To set specific tactical goals and devise and carry out plans for implementation, the work of the Commission is divided among four Working Groups.

• Technical Working Group covering spectral output, propagation, artificial sky glow and RFI, and regulatory issues.
• Site Protection Working Group, to coordinate and facilitate efforts focused on professional observing sites.
• Inter-commission Working Group on Achieving Sustainable Development within a Quality Lighting Framework, joint with Commission C1.  Primary focus is dark sky protection as part of sustainability in worldwide curricula.
• Inter-commission World Heritage Working Group, joint with Commission C4.  Goal is to gain status for astronomical areas with cultural significance for the history of the field through the Windows on the Universe/High Mountain Observatories proposal to UNESCO.

All members of the IAU are invited to participate in this critical work.