Dare the World to Save the Planet is the theme of this year’s Earth Hour. It’s an annual event that began in 2007 to raise awareness about climate change and global warming. Every year on the last Saturday in March, people are asked to switch off all non-essential lights for just one hour. This year Earth Hour will take place on March 31st at 8:30 pm local time.
Industrialization has shifted the natural balance. Fossil fuels have created a surplus of CO2 trapped in our atmosphere. And now we’re seeing the effects of global warming. Weather patterns are changing, natural disasters are rampant, and glaciers are shrinking. Climate change is upon us and it’s time we joined forces to make a difference.
In 2011, more than 5,200 cities and towns in 135 countries worldwide switched off their lights for Earth Hour sending a strong message for action on climate change. It also ushered in a new era with members going beyond the one hour. Without a doubt, it’s shown how great things can be achieved when people come together for a common cause.
Ok so what would you do to save the planet? Give up your favourite treat for a month if 10 friends agree to recycle? Get a walrus tattoo if 50 friends agree to turn off their computers and monitors every night? Shave your head if 100 people give up driving for a week? There are many more ideas on how to get involved on Earth Hour’s YouTube channel or you can make up your own challenge.
Or sign up your organization, your school, your company, your club or social group. Help your organization to make a difference by making a policy of turning off the lights at the end of the day or putting them on a timer, using power management software to make sure computers and monitors power down when not in use, or even setting up a company carpool. How are you planning on getting involved this year?
Earth Hour tools for organizations:
http://www.earthhour.org/page/get-involved/tools-and-downloads
