On Saturday March 28, 2009, millions of people around the globe will usher darkness into their lives for the good of the planet. Will you be one of them?
Earth Hour is an annual international lights out event happening on Saturday, March 28 at 8:30 p.m. The goal is to get as many individuals and businesses as possible to turn off their lights for one hour to raise awareness about climate change and demonstrate that people are ready to take personal action and that in turn, people expect more engagement on behalf of the government. (WWF Earth Hour FAQ)
The point of Earth Hour is not to say that turning off the lights for a single hour each year is enough. No, it’s not enough. But it is a start. I’ve always firmly believed that spouting critiques is only slightly more progressive than ignorance.
Earth Hour is a visible demonstration of support at all levels for solutions to climate change. It is your opportunity to stimulate change amongst family, friends, business, and government, backed by the institutions, celebrities, corporations, and masses of global citizens who have signed on to endorse and participate. A chance to ask the question, “what are you comitted to doing to combat climate change the day after Earth Hour, and the day after that?”
Last year, “almost 10 million adult Canadians participated in more than 150 cities and municipalities across the
country. Around the world, millions more participated in more than 35 countries.” (Earth Hour FAQ) As of today, 200 Canadian cities are already sign up. This year, allow yourself to be inspired, and join in the action.
Creative Commemorations of Earth Hour 2009
Last year, “people in cities across Canada held candlelight dinners, enjoyed time with friends and family or went on walks. Some made an even bigger contribution by turning off or unplugging other electrical devices.” (Earth Hour) This year, go a step further with the following actionable ideas:
1. Sign up and register to participate, so your efforts can be counted. Those who register could win a trip for 2 to visit the polar bears in Churchill Manitoba!
2. Collect pledges from employees and fellow co-workers at work to sign-up and participate.
3. Participate in or organize public events in your community. Visit Earth Hour, contact your municipality or local eco group, and find Earth Hour on Facebook.
4. Ask your mayor and local representatives to take further action on climate change through energy efficiency and conservation, improvement of public transit, and building more efficient public buildings.
5. Green Power your home.
6. Head downtown at night, and select a fully lit building. Contact the building manager and/or canvass the building occupants, and encourage them to participate in Earth Hour. Follow up after Earth Hour and seek their committment on daily energy conservation.
7. Invite friends and community members to gather to watch your local skyline deluminate at 8:30pm on March 28th, 2009.
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