Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions having a light activated antimicrobial material connected to an environmental surface, such as fabric, through a linking moiety and a mediator polymer. Also taught herein are surfaces to which the compositions of this invention are attached to impart antimicrobial activity to those surfaces. The present invention facilitates or makes possible the attachment of certain light activated antimicrobial material such as Rose Bengal dye to a surface to achieve antimicrobial activity.