Earth Hour is coming!
March 31, 2012 to be exact
Have you heard of it? I hope so!
The concept was originally launched in 2007 in Sydney, Australia when 2.2 million people and 2,000 businesses participated by turning off lights, electronics and anything that uses electricity for 1 hour in an effort to take a stand against climate change.
What I didn’t know was that the following year, the second city to participate was my home: Toronto, Canada.
From there, the project exploded and soon 35 countries and 400 cities and towns were on board.
This year it is expected that 135 countries and territories, and 5251 cities and towns will take part in Earth Hour 2012. That’s huge!
While the idea is to ‘switch off‘ we are encouraged to look past the ’60 minutes’ and continue to conserve and protect our planet through conservation and awareness.
To get a better idea, give their promo video a watch below:
So how are you going to get involved?
Will you be travelling in a foreign city/country or will you be home?
No matter where you are, here are a few suggestions as to how you can do your part:
- Find a local event. There are often live performances, gatherings, speakers in major cities around the globe.
- Log off. I know I will be turning off my computer and phone. I will take the opportunity disconnect from digitial and connect more with those I am with in person.
- Unplug appliances and turn off the lights in your home.
- Plan a party (lit by candle light) and create discussion around how we can all help protect the environment.
- Write a letter or make a call to your government representative to voice your support for green energy
Personally, I hope Toronto (where I will be) steps things up a notch. The last time I was here the lights weren’t exactly “off“, especially in the big buildings throughout the city.
Come on Toronto, don’t drop the ball again…
How will you participate in Earth Hour?
Have you before?
