Earth Hour is a worldwide movement for the planet organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The event is held worldwide annually encouraging individuals, communities, households and businesses to turn off their non-essential lights for one hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on the last Saturday in March, as a symbol for their commitment to the planet.
It was famously started as a lights-off event in Sydney, Australia in 2007. Since then it has grown to engage more than 7000 cities and towns worldwide. Today, Earth Hour engages a massive mainstream community on a broad range of environmental issues. The one-hour event continues to remain the key driver of the now larger movement.
This Earth Hour, WWF is calling on Canadians to join other countries in sending a strong global message – that this is the year we change climate change.
The ninth annual Earth Hour takes place only months before a new global climate deal is negotiated. On this day, six continents, 120 countries, and 24 time zones will be united as a global community, making our voices heard through the individual action of turning off the lights.
As we turn off the lights as a symbolic gesture, we are taking the first step toward taking action for our planet. In doing so, we make a powerful, visual statement of our concern for environmental issues and show support for meaningful action on climate change. Last year over 12 million Canadians participated in Earth Hour with 350 cities and towns across the country. And this year, to get you into the spirit once again here are some ideas on how to enjoy the movement.
Candle lit dinner: candles create a lovely ambiance to any meal, so gather some friends and snacks (ahead of time) and enjoy the special time together.
Host a trivia night: have some climate change trivia with friends.
Stargaze: nowadays it’s difficult to find a spot that is not lit up by bright lights- even at night time.
Play games: playing board games is great when you’re with friends and family, so grab some candles and a game or two and have some fun.
Exercise: practice yoga, or do some squats. Being physically active is a great and healthy way to pass the time.
Get outside: this is a great time to walk around and explore places and buildings as you would not normally see them!
Reflect: Earth Hour is a great time to reflect. This is a time to be disconnected from technology and have a moment to just talk. Speak with family and friends about climate change, and all the magnificent species being affected like the polar bear. Or come up with ideas for using less energy beyond the hour!
